In a night of English triumph, Manchester City’s Phil Foden (24) and Chelsea’s Cole Palmer (22) were crowned the 2022/23 PFA Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year, respectively, at Manchester’s Opera House on Tuesday evening.
This marks the first time since the 2009/10 season that both top men’s awards have been bestowed upon English players, signifying a resurgence of English talent in the Premier League.
Foden’s exceptional campaign, characterized by his 19 goals in 35 Premier League matches, played a pivotal role in Manchester City’s historic fourth consecutive title win. At the tender age of 23, he became the youngest player to clinch six league championships, solidifying his status as one of the most promising talents in English football.
“To win this award is something very special and it is one that I am very proud of and grateful for,” Foden expressed. “To be recognized this way by your fellow professionals means everything and I would like to thank everyone who voted for me.”
Foden further expressed his gratitude to Pep Guardiola, the City coaching staff, and his teammates for their unwavering support and guidance in his development. As Manchester City embark on their title defense, Foden has set his sights on achieving even greater success.
“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,” he stated.
Foden’s dominance was further cemented by his earlier wins as the 2023-24 Premier League Player of the Season and the Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year. His exceptional performances have earned him widespread acclaim and admiration from fans and experts alike.
Manchester City’s director of Football, Txiki Begiristain, expressed his delight at Foden’s achievement. “Everyone here is so thrilled to see Phil win this award,” Begiristain said. “To have your fellow professionals recognize you in such a way is very special.”
Phil Foden is the PFA Players’ Player of the Year 🏆 pic.twitter.com/V2nQ6RgrO7
— Professional Footballers' Association (@PFA) August 20, 2024
Begiristain praised Foden’s talent, dedication, and humility, highlighting his contribution to Manchester City’s success. “Phil embodies everything we stand for at Manchester City,” Begiristain added. “He is a supremely talented player but is someone who always strives to seek to improve. He is a very humble guy who is hugely popular throughout the Club. We are all very proud of him.”
Foden’s trophy cabinet now includes the PFA Player of the Year award, having previously won the Young Player award twice. His dominance in English football was further solidified by his wins as the Premier League Player of the Season and the Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year.
Despite facing stiff competition from City teammates Erling Haaland and Rodri, as well as Chelsea’s Cole Palmer, Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard, and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, Foden emerged victorious as the PFA Player of the Year.
While Palmer missed out on the top prize, his impressive debut season at Chelsea was rewarded with the Young Player of the Year award. The 22-year-old’s 22 goals in 34 Premier League matches earned him a spot in the England squad for Euro 2024, where he made a significant impact. Â Â
Palmer defeated Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka, Manchester United duo Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho, former Crystal Palace player Michael Olise, and Brighton’s Joao Pedro for the accolade.
In the women’s categories, Manchester City’s Khadija Shaw claimed the Player of the Year award, while Manchester United’s Grace Clinton was named Young Player of the Year.
