London Football Awards 2026 honours Arsenal stars Arteta, Rice, and Russo for outstanding performances across men’s and women’s football

Some of London’s most prominent football figures were honoured on Thursday night at the London Football Awards 2026, recognising exceptional performances across the capital’s clubs.

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The ceremony was held at Exhibition White City in west London and celebrated achievements in both men’s and women’s football.

Arsenal F.C. enjoyed a particularly successful evening, with manager Mikel Arteta named Manager of the Year.

Arteta guided the club to the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League for the first time since 2009, marking a landmark achievement in the Gunners’ recent European campaigns.

Midfielder Declan Rice received the Premier League Player of the Year award following a series of commanding displays in England’s top flight.

The accolade was presented by former Arsenal winger Theo Walcott.

Goalkeeper David Raya claimed the Goalkeeper of the Year award after securing consecutive Premier League Golden Glove honours, cementing his status as one of the league’s most reliable custodians.

In the women’s game, Arsenal W.F.C. forward Alessia Russo was named Barclays Women’s Super League Player of the Year for her outstanding contributions under head coach Renée Slegers.

Her performances were widely regarded as instrumental in the club’s domestic campaign.

The awards also highlighted community impact.

Crystal Palace F.C. midfielder Eberechi Eze was recognised as the Men’s PFA Player in the Community Champion for his charitable work through the Eze Foundation, reflecting football’s growing social influence in London.

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The annual London Football Awards celebrate the best players, managers, and community initiatives across the capital, reinforcing London’s continued prominence in English football.