UNFP trophies 2026: Malang Sarr included in Ligue 1 Team of the Season.

The UNFP has named its Ligue 1 Team of the Season, with RC Lens defender Malang Sarr selected in central defence, while Olympique Lyonnais’ Moussa Niakhaté is a notable omission from the 2026 shortlist announced on Monday, May 11.

The annual selection, released ahead of the final matchday of the French season, highlights the standout performers across Ligue 1.

This year’s XI is dominated by players from four clubs only: Paris Saint-Germain, RC Lens, Olympique Lyonnais, and Olympique de Marseille.

The announcement has already sparked discussion, particularly in defence, where the contrast between inclusion and exclusion has drawn attention.

Sarr rewarded for consistent campaign

Malang Sarr’s place in the team reflects a strong season at the heart of the RC Lens defence.

His performances have earned him recognition at national level, with expectations also growing over a possible World Cup call-up under Senegal coach Pape Thiaw.

Sarr is partnered in central defence by Paris Saint-Germain’s William Pacho, forming a pairing that the UNFP judges to have been the most consistent across the campaign.

The selection highlights Sarr’s steady development over the season, with his contribution to Lens’ defensive structure proving decisive in key matches.

Niakhaté left out despite strong Lyon form

In contrast, Moussa Niakhaté has been left out of the final XI despite what many observers have described as a strong season with Olympique Lyonnais.

The Senegalese international had been widely expected to feature among the defenders recognised by the UNFP, particularly given his consistent performances throughout the campaign.

However, the final selection did not include him, making him one of the most high-profile absentees from the list.

His omission has stood out given Lyon’s overall representation in the team, with the club still managing to place players in other positions despite Niakhaté’s exclusion.

Limited club representation shapes selection

Only four clubs are represented in this year’s Ligue 1 Team of the Season, underlining the dominance of a small group of teams across the league.

Paris Saint-Germain, as expected, feature heavily following another strong domestic campaign.

RC Lens, Olympique Lyonnais and Olympique de Marseille also have players included, reflecting their influence over the course of the season.

The restricted spread of clubs has also intensified scrutiny of individual selections, particularly where established players have been left out despite strong statistical or defensive records.

Defensive choices draw attention

The defensive lineup has become one of the main talking points following the announcement, with Sarr’s inclusion and Niakhaté’s absence seen as contrasting decisions.

Sarr’s recognition comes at a time when his profile continues to rise, both domestically and internationally.

His partnership with Pacho is viewed by the UNFP panel as the most balanced defensive combination available from this season’s Ligue 1 performances.

For Niakhaté, however, the decision represents a setback in terms of individual recognition, despite his role in Lyon’s campaign.

Focus shifts to final matchday

With the Team of the Season now confirmed, attention in Ligue 1 turns to the final round of fixtures next weekend, which will conclude the 2025–26 campaign.

While the UNFP awards have already highlighted standout individuals, performances in the final matches could still influence wider end-of-season discussions ahead of summer international selections.

For players such as Sarr and Niakhaté, the focus will now move from domestic recognition to international ambitions, as national team coaches finalise plans ahead of major tournaments.

On a demandé à une IA de trouver une faille à cette équipe.

Elle a crash.

Voici le 11 Type de la saison de @Ligue1 💥

Bravo messieurs 🙌#TropheesUNFP pic.twitter.com/v9bBEhTizr

— UNFP (@UNFP) May 11, 2026