Bacary Sagna has named the best player in the Premier League, it’s not Erling Haaland or Mo Salah

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Bacary Sagna doesn’t believe Erling Haaland or Mohamed Salah are the best players in the Premier League, but his pick does play for Manchester United.

New Liverpool signing Hugo Ekitike thinks Haaland is the best finisher in the English top-flight.

Peter Crouch has claimed that the Manchester City ace is the Premier League’s best striker.

However, despite the Norwegian sitting pretty at the top of the scoring charts with 11 goals already this term, one of his teammates is actually better, according to Sagna.

Bacary Sagna picks Rodri over Erling Haaland

Speaking to Reece Mennie recently, the former Arsenal and Man City full-back was asked to name the best player in the Premier League now.

When making his decision, Sagna snubbed Haaland for Rodri. He said: “It’s too difficult. Rodri, maybe.

“Okay, Rodri. If I have to pick one player, I would say Rodri. Why? Because [he] doesn’t need to add much.

“He’s just respecting the game. Never loses position. Always on the right spot. He’s not fast, but he manages to outplay players using his body perfectly, he’s smart.”

Mohamed Salah is another player most would usually put in the conversation for best Premier League player, but his form in 2025/26 has been subpar by his usual lofty standards.

As for Rodri, he became one of just seven Premier League stars to win the Ballon d’Or in 2024, but he has been hampered by injury this season.

Rodri injury latest before Manchester City face Aston Villa

The Spaniard picked up an injury against Brentford earlier this month and has been out of action since.

Pep Guardiola provided an update on the midfielder this week via City’s official website, suggesting he will be out against Aston Villa on Sunday.

He said: “Aston Villa I don’t think [Rodri will return] so either. It’s not long but it’s muscular.

“We have to be careful. We tried many times to prevent another injury but we have not been able to do that so we will see.”

Midfielders are dropping like flies at the Etihad right now, with Nico Gonzalez also picking up a knock in the Champions League meeting with Villarreal on Tuesday.