Now we are in the year 2020 and it is time to choose the team of the decade. This is the squad we feel represents the best players from 2010-2019 in the Premier League. Would this be the side you pick?
Goalkeeper- David De Gea, Manchester United
The Spanish number one has dominated the league for most of the decade. His arrival in 2011 was immediately deemed as a mistake as he struggled to adapt to the English game but since then he reigned as goalkeeper supreme. With five team of the year appearances, four Manchester United player awards, one Golden glove and a Premier League title to his name he has to be the number one.
Right back- Pablo Zabaleta, Manchester City and West Ham
One thing about Zabaleta is his dependability and you know he will bring assurance to a back line. He arrived at the Etihad in 2008 but really came into his own in 2010/11 season especially with Manchester City sevuring the F.A Cup. During the two title winning seasons in 2011/12 and 2013/14 Zabaleta put in stellar performances putting his defending first.
Centre back- John Terry, Chelsea
A man who put his life on the line for Chelsea and bleeds blue. Terry was the captain that you dream of as a player. Even when things looked down and out, Terry would push his teammates to better themselves and produce more. This was certainly the case in the title winning season in 2014/15 when many questioned if Terry could still produce the goods on a big stage.
Centre back- Vincent Kompany, Manchester City
Another leader in defence and one who just oozed class. He was a revelation at the heart of the defence for Manchester City. Even with injury issues he changed how City performed and played as he demanded much more. During his time at Manchester City he secured four league titles.
Left back- Leighton Baines, Everton
Mr. Consistent is the perfect name for Leighton Baines. No left back has been as consistent as Baines in the Premier League this decade as he has produced 250 appearances for Everton and been vital for them for so many seasons. His dependable left foot means he has dominated set pieces and penalties throughout the decade.
Centre midfield- Yaya Toure, Manchester City
Arguably the best box to box midfielder in Premier League history. When he arrived in 2010 for £24 million it was deemed as a waste of money but that was quickly proved to be a misconception. Toure was the first name on the team sheet for many years and even scored 20 goals during the 2013/14 season as he finished top goal scorer in the league for City.
Centre midfield- David Silva, Manchester City
Another Manchester City player who oozes class. David Silva is one of the silkiest players you will ever witness as he caressed the ball around the pitch. He would glide past players leaving them wondering how he managed to get past them. He made 301 appearances and managed to grab 57 goals and 90 assists.
Centre midfield- N’Golo Kante, Leicester City and Chelsea
The hardworking midfielder changed life for Leicester and Chelsea when he arrived at the clubs. His arrival won Leicester the league after finishing just above the relegation zone the year before. The following year he was bought by Chelsea who then won the league. His consistent performances also helped Chelsea win the F.A Cup and Europa League.
Winger- Sadio Mane, Southampton and Liverpool
The Senegalese winger has given full backs nightmares even in his Southampton days. The pacey forward has hit double figures every single Premier League season he has played. His big money move to Liverpool has made him part of the deadliest strike forces in the world. With 59 goals to his name you expect the next decade will produce even more goals.
Winger- Eden Hazard, Chelsea
The Belgian was the main man as soon as he arrived at Chelsea in 2012 and it was a real blow when he left for Real Madrid. He bagged 85 Premier League goals in 245 appearances and made the Premier League team of the year three times (including in his first season). The talisman picked up two Premier League titles during his time in England and amazed crowds with every performance.
Striker- Sergio Aguero, Manchester City
The competition was high for the main role but it just has to be Sergio Aguero. Aguero has only not scored 20 league goals in three seasons (including 2019/20 season) out of the nine seasons he has played in England. With 180 goals in 261 appearances, he is one of the most prolific and frightening strikers you could ever face. If the ball is anywhere in the penalty area at Aguero’s feet it usually means it is a goal.
