PFA Player of the Year 2023 in England

Five players from three different clubs in the Premier League have been shortlisted for the prestigious 2022/23 PFA. Since 2016, this award has been sponsored by EA SPORTS and is one of the three most significant individual honors at the end of the season, alongside the  FWA Footballer of the Year awards. The relatively newer PFA Vertu Motors Premier League Fans’ Player of the Year award, exclusively voted on by fans, has also gained significant recognition. The nominations for Premier League Player of the Season are heavily dominated by Manchester City and Arsenal, reflecting their impressive performances throughout the 2022/23 season.

Erling Haaland

Erling Haaland has had a highly successful season, making a remarkable impact in the world of football. Since joining Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund last summer, he has displayed exceptional skills and achieved outstanding performances, solidifying his reputation as one of the best strikers in the game.

In the 2022/23 season, Haaland has been an unstoppable force, consistently finding the back of the net and rewriting the record books. He has scored an astonishing 36 goals in the Premier League, setting a new single-season goal-scoring record since the competition’s inception in 1992. His ability to find scoring opportunities and convert them into goals has been truly exceptional.

Haaland’s contributions extend beyond just goal-scoring. He has shown remarkable versatility in his playing style, using his pace, strength, and technical abilities to create opportunities for himself and his teammates. He has also demonstrated excellent teamwork and an understanding of the game, evidenced by his impressive 16 assists, which leads the Premier League.

Not only has Haaland been a prolific goal-scorer and provider, but he has also consistently performed at a high level throughout the season. His performances have been marked by consistency, determination, and a hunger for success. He has showcased his ability to perform under pressure and deliver crucial goals in important matches, making him a true game-changer for Manchester City.

Haaland’s success this season has not only garnered attention in the Premier League but also on the international stage. His exceptional performances have earned him praise and recognition from fans, pundits, and fellow professionals worldwide.

With his remarkable goal-scoring prowess, Haaland has proven himself as one of the most exciting and promising talents in football today. His consistent performances and ability to deliver in key moments have undoubtedly contributed to Manchester City’s success in the 2022/23 season. 

Here is what Erling himself says about his outstanding season:

“You can think of it in both ways. I’m not stressed. I feel really good. I didn’t expect to score this many goals but, again, I could have scored more . I’ve been missing a lot of chances, so I could have scored more. That’s the truth.“

Kevin De Bruyne 

Kevin De Bruyne, who leads the Premier League in assists with 16, also makes the list. Kevin De Bruyne has had a highly successful season, showcasing his exceptional talent and consistently delivering outstanding performances. As a key player for Manchester City, De Bruyne has played a pivotal role in their achievements during the 2022/2023 season.

De Bruyne’s impact on the team can be seen in his exceptional playmaking abilities. He has demonstrated incredible vision, passing accuracy, and creativity, making him one of the most influential midfielders in the game. Throughout the season, De Bruyne has consistently provided crucial assists, setting up numerous goals for his teammates.

In terms of statistics, De Bruyne has led the Premier League in assists, with an impressive tally of 16. His ability to deliver accurate and incisive passes in the final third has been a key factor in Manchester City’s attacking prowess. He has shown great awareness on the field, consistently finding gaps in the opposition’s defense and creating scoring opportunities for his teammates.

Beyond his playmaking skills, De Bruyne has also displayed his versatility and adaptability. He has been deployed in various positions in the midfield, excelling as a central midfielder, attacking midfielder, and even occasionally as a wide player. His technical abilities, combined with his tactical understanding of the game, have allowed him to thrive in different roles and contribute significantly to Manchester City’s success.

Awards won by Kevin De Bruyne throughout his career:

• PFA Players’ Player of the Year (2019/2020)
• PFA Young Player of the Year (2018/2019)
• Premier League Playmaker of the Season (2019/2020, 2020/2021)
• Premier League Goal of the Month (multiple times)
• UEFA Europa League Squad of the Season (2014/2015)
• Belgian Sportsman of the Year (2015)
• Belgian Professional Footballer of the Year (2014/2015, 2015/2016, 2019/2020)
• VDV Footballer of the Year (2015/2016)
• Premier League 100 Club (for scoring 100 goals)
• Premier League Team of the Year (multiple times)

In addition to his assists, De Bruyne has also made important contributions in terms of goals. While not known for his prolific goal-scoring, he has chipped in with several crucial goals throughout the season, demonstrating his ability to finish chances when presented with them. His goalscoring instinct and ability to strike the ball with precision have added an extra dimension to his already impressive skill set.

Furthermore, De Bruyne’s leadership qualities and professionalism have been evident both on and off the field. He has served as a role model for his teammates, leading by example and motivating them to perform at their best. His experience and composure in high-pressure situations have been invaluable for Manchester City, particularly in crucial matches.

De Bruyne’s exceptional season has not only earned him praise within the Premier League but has also solidified his reputation as one of the best midfielders in the world. His performances have drawn accolades from fans, pundits, and fellow professionals alike, highlighting his impact and influence on the game.

As the season progresses, football enthusiasts eagerly anticipate De Bruyne’s continued contributions and the impact he will have on Manchester City’s pursuit of success. With his exceptional skill set, versatility, and leadership qualities, De Bruyne remains a vital asset for both his club and the national team.

Martin Odegaard

Martin Odegaard has had an immensely successful season, proving his worth and establishing himself as a standout player. Since his time at Arsenal, Odegaard has made a significant impact on the team’s performances and has been a key contributor to their achievements during the 2022/2023 season.

Odegaard’s skill and creativity have been a revelation on the pitch. As an attacking midfielder, he possesses exceptional technical abilities, superb ball control, and a keen eye for a pass. Throughout the season, Odegaard has consistently showcased his vision and ability to unlock defenses, providing crucial assists and creating scoring opportunities for his teammates.

In terms of statistics, Odegaard has been instrumental in Arsenal’s attacking play. He has contributed significantly in terms of goals and assists, consistently making decisive contributions in the final third. His ability to find space and make intelligent runs into the box has resulted in important goals, while his precise passing and creativity have led to numerous assists for his teammates.

In addition to his offensive contributions, Odegaard has also displayed great work rate and versatility. He has shown a willingness to track back, contribute defensively, and press opponents when out of possession. His commitment to both attacking and defensive duties has made him an asset to the team’s overall performance and tactical approach.

Bukayo Saka

Bukayo Saka has had an incredibly successful season, solidifying his position as one of the brightest young talents in football. Throughout the 2022/2023 season, Saka has demonstrated exceptional skills, versatility, and consistency, making a significant impact on Arsenal’s performances.

Saka’s standout attribute is his ability to play in multiple positions with equal effectiveness. Whether deployed as a winger, attacking midfielder, or even as a full-back, he has consistently impressed with his technical abilities, speed, and agility. This versatility has made him a valuable asset for Arsenal, allowing him to contribute in various ways and adapt to different tactical systems.

In terms of statistics, Saka has been a key contributor in both goals and assists. His direct style of play and intelligent movement off the ball have resulted in numerous goal-scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. Saka’s ability to deliver accurate crosses and incisive passes has also led to a significant number of assists, showcasing his vision and creativity in the final third.

Marcus Rashford

Marcus Rashford has enjoyed a highly successful season, showcasing his immense talent and making a significant impact on the pitch. Throughout the 2022/2023 season, Rashford has consistently displayed his exceptional skills, versatility, and goal-scoring prowess for Manchester United.

Rashford’s standout attribute is his blistering pace and agility, which make him a nightmare for opposing defenders. His ability to dribble past opponents and create goal-scoring opportunities has been a constant threat to defenses. Additionally, his close control and quick decision-making in tight spaces have allowed him to navigate through congested areas and contribute to Manchester United’s attacking play.

In terms of statistics, Rashford has been a key contributor in terms of goals. His clinical finishing and ability to find the back of the net have consistently put him among the top goal-scorers in the Premier League. Throughout the season, Rashford has displayed a keen eye for goal, both from open play and set-pieces, making him a reliable source of goals for his team.

Furthermore, Rashford’s versatility has been a valuable asset for Manchester United. He has been deployed in various positions across the front line, including as a central striker, on the wing, or in a supporting role. This flexibility has allowed him to adapt to different tactical systems and contribute effectively, regardless of his position on the pitch.

Beyond his goal-scoring prowess, Rashford’s work rate and dedication to the team cannot be overlooked. He has demonstrated a strong work ethic, often tracking back to help in defensive duties and pressing opponents to regain possession. His defensive contribution and ability to win back the ball have made him a valuable asset in both attacking and defensive phases of the game.

Rashford’s performances have garnered praise from fans, pundits, and fellow professionals, establishing him as one of the most exciting talents in English football. Off the pitch, his activism and philanthropic endeavors have further endeared him to fans worldwide, making him a role model both on and off the field.

As the season progresses, the anticipation surrounding Rashford’s future growth and potential achievements continues to build. With his exceptional skill set, versatility, and determination, he is set to play a significant role in Manchester United’s success and leave a lasting impact on the game.