AI has Named the Greatest 23-man Squad in Premier League History

As one of the best divisions in world football, the Premier League has played host to some of the most talented players from around the globe. Since the English top flight was rebranded in 1992 to take on its current guise, big money has been spent to attract world-class individuals.

Combined with the stellar record that clubs have for developing exceptional prospects, it’s little wonder why so many people have fixed their eyes on the division for so many years. But, if you had to build one squad and were able to pick any player who has stepped foot on a pitch in England’s top tier, who gets into your 23-man unit?

With such a huge pool to choose from, no two teams would be the same, with any combination of Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard and Paul Scholes being debated for hours on end. So, to try and get a definitive answer on what the greatest squad in Premier League history is, GIVEMESPORT have booted up ChatGPT, asking it to pick 23 players who made the biggest impact in England’s top division. Taking into account ability and what each person achieved in the league, this exclusive club is full of legends, exceptional talents, and title winners.

Goalkeepers

Peter Schmeichel and Petr Cech both included

There are a whole host of shot-stoppers who could all make a case for one of the three spots available here. For ChatGPT, though, the first name on the teamsheet has to be Manchester United icon, Peter Schmeichel. Citing the fact that he redefined what was expected from a goalkeeper in the modern era and how integral he was to the Red Devils’ dominance in the 1990s, the great Dane was a physical presence between the sticks. Rarely making a mistake, Schmeichel was ever-reliable during a 12-year Premier League career that also saw him line up for United’s rivals, Manchester City.

Providing depth in the squad is Petr Cech, often seen as Schmeichel’s main rival when debating the best goalkeeper in Premier League history. As Chelsea’s number one for over a decade, the Czech Republic international produced multiple saves that left fans and pundits alike scratching their heads. Considering he holds the record for most Premier League clean sheets, you could definitely make a case that he deserves the starting spot.

The third goalkeeper spot could have gone to any of Edwin van der Sar, David de Gea, or Joe Hart, but ChatGPT decided that all three were just honorable mentions, despite their credentials. Instead, it picked current Liverpool ‘keeper Alisson Becker as the final glovesman for the 23-man squad. As capable with the ball at his feet as he is when facing shots, the Brazilian has underlined his claim here with multiple phenomenal seasons for the Reds under both Jurgen Klopp and Arne Slot.

Defenders

Nemanja Vidic left out

Eight spaces are up for grabs for defenders, with a pair of full-backs on either flank along with four enforcers in the middle of the pitch. On the right, Gary Neville’s spot is secured. As one of the most decorated Premier League players of all time, he brought consistency, work rate and exceptional leadership to United teams that were full of star-power. But ChatGPT, perhaps surprisingly, opted for Cesar Azpilicueta as his deputy. The Spaniard is a versatile option, having played across the backline during his 11 years at Stamford Bridge, and is hailed by the AI program as being ‘Mr. Consistency’, a quality which sees him beat Branislav Ivanovic, Kyle Walker and Trent Alexander-Arnold to a spot here.

On the opposite side, it’s no surprise to see Ashley Cole named as one of the left-back options. Named “the best left-back in Premier League history”, the England international shut down even the most talented right-wingers, with Cristiano Ronaldo naming Cole as his toughest opponent. But he also offered plenty going forward, giving Arsenal and Chelsea dynamism up and down the left flank. Patrice Evra is selected as the second left-back with the Frenchman, like Cole, offering attacking capabilities while also being defensively astute. His leadership over the years for United proved invaluable, as the Red Devils claimed five Premier League trophies with him in the side.

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Centre-back is where things become difficult, with the Premier League not having a shortage of quality options in the heart of defence. ChatGPT’s first pick goes to John Terry, labelling him a “warrior.” A mainstay for Chelsea and England, he captained both club and country for multiple years, never afraid to put his body in the way of a shot or challenge even the most aggressive centre-forward for a header. Rio Ferdinand was also a shoe-in for the team due to his exceptional reading of the game. His anticipation, combined with his pace and physical stature, is why many believe that the United man is one of the best centre-backs in Premier League history.

Liverpool fans will be delighted to see Virgil van Dijk join Terry and Ferdinand in the squad. The Dutchman’s resume is seriously impressive, with his intelligence and dominance on the football pitch helping to make him an all-time great, despite others winning more league titles. And Vincent Kompany is given the final spot, having been at the heart of Man City’s rise domestically during the 2010s. Although some might have expected Nemanja Vidic to make the squad for his bullish displays over the years at Old Trafford, the Belgian is preferred for his leadership and ability to score important goals.

Midfielders

Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard both omitted

Now, this is where things get slightly more controversial. Both Gerrard and Lampard are considered to be two of the best midfielders of all-time, with debate raging about who, along with Scholes, was the best of the lot. But, despite there being five central-midfield spots up for grabs, only the Man United maestro is included. ChatGPT’s reasoning for not including Gerrard boils down to a lack of Premier League titles during his incredible career and a lack of tactical flexibility, while Lampard is cut for balance, even though he is the highest-scoring midfielder in top flight history.

Scholes’ inclusion shouldn’t come as a surprise though. As the lynchpin in United’s midfield for many years, his range of passing was absolutely superb. He could unlock the most stubborn of defences, and his 11 league titles at Old Trafford make him an easy pick. Partnering him as the team’s main creator is Kevin De Bruyne, who is dubbed “arguably the greatest Premier League playmaker.” Only one player has created more goals in the league’s history, with De Bruyne running the show at the Etihad for a decade, leading Man City to six league titles.

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Every team needs strength in the engine room though, players who can do the dirty work out of possession. And in ChatGPT’s eyes, Roy Keane and Patrick Vieira are the best of the lot. The rivalry between Arsenal and United during the late 90s and early 2000s was embodied by the clashes between the two leaders of the two teams, with each of them bringing steel and leadership to their respective clubs. While the Irishman is selected to act as a holding midfielder in this squad, Vieira is picked for a box-to-box role because of his engine.

The final spot, to the surprise of some, is given to James Milner, as he is considered to be the best “utility” option. Capable of playing every role in midfield and in defence if needed, the England international has enjoyed a stellar career since breaking through at Leeds in 2002. Second in the list for most Premier League appearances and winning three league titles across his 638 outings, Milner has been an underrated but key part of title-winning sides, bringing a work-rate which multiple managers have loved.

Wingers

Mohamed Salah included but Gareth Bale left out

David Beckham, Gareth Bale, Sadio Mane, Riyad Mahrez – all talented players and some of the best wingers ever. But none of them are included in the squad. A few of them didn’t spend as long in the Premier League as others selected. Others, despite outstanding careers, are omitted because the trio selected just did a little more to warrant being picked.

Ryan Giggs is given the first winger spot, having enjoyed consistent success at Man United while playing an integral role for Sir Alex Ferguson for 24 years. The most decorated player in this squad and all-time leader for assists in the division, the Welshman was named by Scholes as the greatest teammate of his career. Considering just how many talented players he had the privilege of lining up alongside, that tells you just how good Giggs was at his best.

For his goalscoring exploits and consistency for Liverpool over the years, Mohamed Salah is also included. Two Premier League titles add to his legacy, but what the Egyptian offers from the right has not and likely will not be replicated by anyone for many years. Adored by Anfield supporters and football fans around the world, he can still add to his legacy in England’s top tier before he calls time on his Merseyside career.

Eden Hazard pips the likes of Beckham and Bale to the final spot in this squad, with ChatGPT referencing how he almost single-handedly dragged Chelsea to results during his seven years at Stamford Bridge. A magician at his best, it was nearly impossible to stop the Belgian when he was in full-flight.

Forwards

Alan Shearer picked over Harry Kane

It’s no surprise to see the Premier League’s all-time top scorer take one of the four spots available for forwards. Alan Shearer’s tally of 260 goals is a remarkable achievement, and he could have bagged even more were it not for injury issues. Breaking the 30-goal barrier three times in his career, no striker has been as prolific as the Newcastle and Blackburn icon.

However, despite Harry Kane being just behind Shearer in the scoring charts, there’s no spot in the squad for him. Even though he led the line for England and Tottenham superbly, the lack of any league title means ChatGPT excludes him entirely. Instead, the second spot falls to Arsenal great, Thierry Henry. Capable of playing centrally or off the left, the Frenchman was lethal in front of goal and brought a flair to the league which has influenced players for years after he left England. An Invincible and arguably the greatest player in Premier League history, his place in the squad was always assured.

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The final two spots go to two Man United legends and teammates – Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney. The pair formed a brilliant partnership during the five seasons they spent together between 2004 and 2009, making their mark on the competition’s history. Ronaldo, despite his short stint in England compared to other frontmen, was a fantastic talent. Sir Alex Ferguson was in no doubt when he named the Portuguese maestro the “best player he had ever coached” due to his sheer ability, with him going on to become the first United player to win the Ballon d’Or since George Best in 1968.

Rooney, meanwhile, built his Premier League legacy over a much longer period of time. Breaking through at Everton as a talented 16-year-old, he proceeded to dominate teams at Old Trafford, scoring less than 10 league goals just twice in 13 seasons in Manchester. With 253 goals, including 208 in the Premier League, he remains United’s all-time top scorer – to deny him a spot in this squad would simply be madness.

Manager

Sir Alex Ferguson the only true choice

Despite Pep Guardiola, Arsene Wenger, Jurgen Klopp and Jose Mourinho all being Premier League legends in their own right, the manager of this hypothetical squad was only ever going to be one man. No head coach has a legacy in England that stacks up to Sir Alex Ferguson, with the former Red Devils gaffer overseeing multiple periods of dominance at Old Trafford.

Collecting 13 Premier League titles and taking charge of 809 Premier League matches, ChatGPT hails Ferguson for his ability to build dynasties while also being an exceptional man-manager. One of the greatest coaches to ever take up a seat in the dugout, there’s no telling what the Scot would win if he had all these players to choose from at the peak of their powers.