Super Eagles defender Emmanuel Fernandez has been named in the PFA Scotland Premiership Team of The Year for the 2025/26 season, capping an impressive debut campaign with Rangers after establishing himself as one of the club’s most consistent performers, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The 24-year-old centre-back, who joined Rangers during the summer transfer window, overcame a slow start to become a key figure in the side’s defensive unit, earning recognition for his composure on the ball, ability to initiate attacks from the back and strong defensive displays throughout the season.
Fernandez also contributed significantly in attack, scoring six goals in 28 appearances across all competitions, which underlines his threat from set-pieces and open play, a return that has drawn attention across European football.
His performances have now been rewarded with inclusion in the league’s best XI, which is voted for by fellow players.
He is joined in defence by Paul McGinn of Motherwell, alongside Craig Halkett and Harry Milne of Heart of Midlothian, with Calum Ward of Motherwell selected as goalkeeper.
The midfield features Benjamin Nygren of Celtic, Elliot Watt and Elijah Just, both of Motherwell, while the attacking line includes Tawanda Maswanhise of Motherwell, as well as Heart of Midlothian duo Lawrence Shankland and Claudio Braga.
Reacting to the recognition, Fernandez said he was honoured to be acknowledged by his peers in his first full season in Scottish football, describing the achievement as a significant milestone in his career.
“I am delighted to be included in the PFA Scotland Team of the Year, and it means a lot to me. I have enjoyed my debut season with Rangers, and it has gone better than I ever dreamed it could,” Fernandez said as quoted by Rangers website.
He also credited his development during the campaign to the support he received from the club’s technical crew and his teammates, highlighting the role they played in helping him settle quickly at Ibrox.
“I would like to thank the gaffer and his coaching staff for believing and trusting in me, my teammates for all their support, as well as our amazing fans who have backed me since I joined the club,” the 6 ft 4 in defender said.
Since arriving from Peterborough United for a reported €2.9m, Fernandez has become a regular starter, featuring in 28 matches while maintaining a high level of performance that has been central to Rangers’ defensive stability.
His rise has also extended to the international stage, with the defender earning his first call-up to the Super Eagles during the March international window.
He made his debut in a 2-1 victory over Iran before scoring his first international goal on his full debut against Jordan.