Between Bruno, Elanga, Rice: Who will win March EPL POTM?
Bruno, Elanga, Rice, and others battle for March Barclays player of the month award. Photo Credit- Premier League
As the Premier League season reaches its climax, six standout players have been shortlisted for the March 2025 EA SPORTS Player of the Month award. Jean-Ricner Bellegarde (Wolves), Anthony Elanga (Nottingham Forest), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), Nikola Milenkovic (Nottingham Forest), Declan Rice (Arsenal), and Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton & Hove Albion) have each left their mark with dazzling displays, pivotal contributions, and magical moments. With voting open until Monday, March 31, and the winner to be announced early April. This piece is set to break down their playing styles, March records, team impact, and who might claim the award.
Jean-Ricner Bellegarde – Wolves
The French midfielder is a dynamic, attack-minded playmaker known for his vision and flair. Bellegarde thrives in tight spaces, using quick feet and precise passing to unlock defenses. In addition, Bellegarde assisted all three of Wolves’ goals across two matches, setting up a 1-1 draw against Everton and contributing to both goals in a 2-1 victory over Southampton. His three assists in March highlight his growing influence.
With Wolves just nine points above the relegation zone, Bellegarde’s creativity has been a lifeline. His ability to turn half-chances into goals has brought hope into a side struggling for survival, making him a fan favorite at Molineux.
Anthony Elanga: Nottingham Forest
The Swedish winger is a classic speedster, combining great pace with direct dribbling. Elanga is great when it comes to counter, often cutting inside from the wing to unleash powerful shots or deliver sharp passes. Additionally, Elanga bagged two goals in a thrilling 4-2 win over Ipswich Town, adding to his season tally of five goals and eight assists in 2024/25. His brace showcased his clinical edge.
Nottingham Forest’s perfect March; two wins from two matches, owes much to Elanga’s ability. His pace stretches defenses, creating space for teammates, and his goal against Manchester City earlier in the month (a 1-0 win) underlines his big-game mentality. Forest’s Champions League push is alive thanks to his spark.
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Bruno Fernandes: Manchester United
The Portuguese captain is a versatile box-to-box midfielder and always available to bring the spectacular. Fernandes combines tireless work rate with accurate passing, bold long-range strikes, and a master of set-piece. Additionally, Fernandes was directly involved in all four of United’s goals, scoring a stunning free kick in a 1-1 draw with Arsenal in Old Trafford, then adding one while assisting twice in a 3-0 win against Leicester City.
Under Ruben Amorim, Fernandes has rediscovered his form, driving United to an unbeaten month. His leadership and versatility, combining playmaking and goalscoring has steadied a previously shaky ship, pushing United closer to a European spot.
Nikola Milenkovic: Nottingham Forest
The Serbian center-back is a commanding aerial presence with surprising ball-playing ability. Milenkovic combines physicality with composure, excelling in duels and stepping into midfield when needed. Milenkovic scored once and assisted once in Forest’s 4-2 win over Ipswich, while his defensive heroics helped shut out Manchester City in a 1-0 upset. His impact both in the defense and attack is something unusual for a defender.
Furthermore, Forest’s backline, headed by Milenkovic, conceded just twice in March, emphasizing their perfect record. His goal and assist against Ipswich added an attacking dimension, while his masterclass against the Cityzens showed he can handle top teams. He has become a cornerstone in their race for the top-four.
Declan Rice: Arsenal
The English player is amongst the best midfielders in the league, strong in making tackles and smooth in possession. Rice’s game combines defensiveness with progressive passing and unexpected arrivals in the penalty area. In addition, Rice scored his first goal of 2025 in a 1-1 draw with Manchester United, while his crucial block denied Rasmus Hojlund a winner. He was also immense in Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Chelsea, leading the Gunners to an unbeaten month.
Arsenal’s title hopes remain intact thanks to Rice’s superb presence. His ability to break up opposition play and start attacks has created more space for teammates like Martin Odegaard to advance the attack, while his firm moments against United and Chelsea shows that he is a player when it comes to big games and crucial fixtures.
Jan Paul van Hecke: Brighton
The Dutch center-back has an ability for reading the game. Van Hecke’s strength lies in his positioning and aerial dominance, though he’s added goals to his list this season.
Furthermore, Van Hecke scored in Brighton’s 2-1 comeback win over Fulham, contributing to their unbeaten run of five matches. His defensive solidity was key in a 2-2 draw at Manchester City.Brighton’s seventh-place standing owes much to Van Hecke’s defensive work rate. His goal against Fulham sparked a turnaround, while his work in preventing City’s attack helped secure a precious point. He’s quietly vital to Fabian Hurzeler’s system.
Who will win?
This month’s race is a tight one between these players. Bellegarde’s assists kept Wolves progressing above the relegation zone, although Wolves still struggles which could affect his ability to get the award. Van Hecke’s steady excellence is commendable, yet lacks the media spotlight. Milenkovic’s defensive and offensive combination is compelling, but for a defender to get the award is a rare occasion most often with players that comes from clubs with limited media paparazzi. Elanga’s pace and goals has put Forest in a serious top 4 conversation, making him a dark horse. Rice’s all-around superb performance keeps Arsenal’s hopes alive, giving him a solid shot.
Regardless, Bruno Fernandes stands out. His four goal involvements, including a jaw-dropping free kick which is amongst the nomination for goal of the month, and a superb performance against Leicester, makes him the best nominee to clinch the accolade. United’s unbeaten run under new management, paired with his captain’s aura, makes him the man to beat. The 10% public vote could favor him too, given United’s massive fan base.
Expect Fernandes to claim his fifth Player of the Month award next week though Elanga and Rice won’t go down without a fight. Who’s your pick? Cast your vote at premierleague.com before Monday’s deadline and join the debate.
