PREMIER LEAGUE PLAYERS ON EDGE AS MEDAL ELIGIBILITY RULES BITE

The Premier League title race between Arsenal and Manchester City is approaching a decisive stage, but while both clubs battle for the championship, several squad players could end the season without a winners’ medal.

Under Premier League regulations, players must make at least five league appearances to automatically qualify for a winners’ medal. Clubs may request additional medals for other squad members, but these are limited and not guaranteed.

As a result, several fringe and young players from both teams currently fall short of the requirement.

Arsenal players at risk

At Arsenal, goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga has not yet made a Premier League appearance this season, meaning he would depend on club discretion if the team wins the title.

Youngster Max Dowman has made four league appearances so far and still needs at least one more game to meet the automatic requirement.

Marli Salmon and Tommy Setford have featured mainly in cup competitions and have yet to register league appearances, leaving their chances of receiving medals uncertain.

Manchester City players at risk

At Manchester City, midfielder Mateo Kovacic has been affected by injuries and remains below the five-appearance threshold.

Max Alleyne is also short of the requirement due to limited league involvement after returning from a loan spell.

Young squad members Reigan Heskey, Charlie Gray, and Ryan McAidoo have primarily featured in cup competitions and are yet to meet the eligibility mark.

Players currently below the medal threshold

• Kepa Arrizabalaga (Arsenal)
• Max Dowman (Arsenal)
• Marli Salmon (Arsenal)
• Tommy Setford (Arsenal)
• Mateo Kovacic (Manchester City)
• Max Alleyne (Manchester City)
• Reigan Heskey (Manchester City)
• Charlie Gray (Manchester City)
• Ryan McAidoo (Manchester City)

As the title race intensifies, attention now turns not only to who will lift the trophy, but also to which squad players will officially share in the glory.