Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden has been named the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) men’s player of the year, while Chelsea winger Cole Palmer has been awarded the young player of the year. This marks the first time since the 2009-10 season that both awards have gone to English players.
Foden expressed his pride and gratitude upon winning the prestigious award, stating that being recognized by his fellow professionals means everything to him. He also thanked everyone who voted for him. Last season was a memorable one for Foden and Manchester City, as they secured their fourth consecutive Premier League title. Foden played a crucial role in the team’s success, scoring 19 goals in 35 top-flight appearances. At just 23 years old, he also became the youngest player to win six league titles.
This is Foden’s first time winning the PFA men’s player of the year award, although he has previously been recognized as the best young player. In addition to this accolade, Foden was also named the Premier League player of the season for the 2023-24 campaign and received the Football Writers’ Association footballer of the year award. He faced tough competition for the PFA award from his City teammates Erling Haaland, who won it last year, and Rodri, as well as Chelsea’s Cole Palmer, Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard, and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins.
While Palmer may not have won the young player of the year award, he had an impressive season for Chelsea. The 22-year-old scored 22 goals in 34 Premier League appearances, earning him a place in the England squad for Euro 2024. Palmer even found the back of the net in the final, although the Three Lions ultimately lost to Spain.
In the women’s categories, Manchester City’s Khadija Shaw was named the player of the year, while Manchester United’s Grace Clinton received the young player of the year award.
The PFA team of the year, voted for by players, was dominated by Manchester City and Arsenal players. City’s Kyle Walker, Rodri, Erling Haaland, and Phil Foden were included, along with Arsenal’s David Raya, William Saliba, Gabriel, Declan Rice, and Martin Odegaard. Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins also made the team.
Overall, the PFA awards recognized the outstanding performances of players in the Premier League. Foden’s exceptional contributions to Manchester City’s success and Palmer’s impressive debut season for Chelsea earned them well-deserved recognition. The inclusion of players from various teams in the team of the year highlights the talent and competitiveness in the league.