Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden has been awarded the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) men’s player of the year, while Chelsea winger Cole Palmer has been recognized as the young player of the year. This marks the first time since the 2009-10 season that both men’s awards have been won by English players, with Wayne Rooney and James Milner being the recipients in that season.
Foden expressed his pride and gratitude upon receiving the award, stating, “To win this award is something very special and it is one that I am very proud of and grateful for. To be recognised this way by your fellow professionals means everything and I would like to thank everyone who voted for me. Last season was another very special one for everyone at the club, but now all our focus is concentrated on trying to achieve more success this term.”
In the 2023-24 season, Foden scored 19 goals in 35 Premier League appearances as Manchester City secured their fourth consecutive league title. At 23, he became the youngest player to win six league titles. This is Foden’s first PFA player of the year award, although he has previously been honored as the best young player. He also received the Premier League player of the season award and was named Football Writers’ Association (FWA) footballer of the year.
Foden edged out his Manchester City teammates Erling Haaland and Rodri, as well as Chelsea’s Palmer, Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard, and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, who were all shortlisted for the award.
Palmer, despite missing out on the top award, was acknowledged for his outstanding performance. The 22-year-old scored 22 goals in 34 Premier League appearances during his debut season for Chelsea. His impressive form earned him a place in the England squad for Euro 2024, where he scored in the final, although England was defeated 2-1 by Spain.
Palmer secured the young player of the year award ahead of Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka, Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho, former Crystal Palace player Michael Olise, and Brighton’s Joao Pedro.
In the women’s categories, Manchester City’s Khadija Shaw was named player of the year, and Manchester United’s Grace Clinton was awarded young player of the year.
The Premier League team of the year, as voted by players, saw a strong representation from Manchester City and Arsenal. The team includes:
Goalkeeper
– David Raya (Arsenal)
Defenders
– William Saliba (Arsenal)
– Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)
– Gabriel (Arsenal)
– Kyle Walker (Manchester City)
Midfielders
– Rodri (Manchester City)
– Declan Rice (Arsenal)
– Martin Odegaard (Arsenal)
Forwards
– Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
– Phil Foden (Manchester City)
– Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)
