Super Eagles and Rangers centre-back Emmanuel Fernandez has been named in the 2025/26 PFA Scotland Premiership Team of the Year, capping an outstanding debut season at Ibrox.
The 24-year-old, who joined Rangers from Peterborough United in the summer of 2025 on a four-year contract, overcame early adaptation challenges to establish himself as a key figure in manager Danny Röhl’s title-chasing defence.
Fernandez earned recognition from his fellow professionals for his dominant one-on-one defending, composure in building play from the back, and notable attacking contribution, having scored six goals in 28 appearances across all competitions for the Light Blues.
He is the only Rangers player included in the defensive lineup, joining Motherwell’s Paul McGinn and Heart of Midlothian duo Craig Halkett and Harry Milne.
His impressive domestic performances have also translated onto the international stage, earning him his first call-up to the Nigerian national team during the recent FIFA window.
Fernandez made his Super Eagles debut as a substitute in a 2-1 victory over Iran on March 27, before marking his first start with a goal in a 2-2 draw against Jordan four days later.
As Pulse Sports reported, his rapid rise, coupled with his inclusion in the Scottish PFA Team of the Year, has significantly heightened transfer interest, with several top clubs reportedly monitoring his progress. Premier League sides Chelsea and Arsenal are among those said to be preparing summer bids for the defender.
