Manchester City forward Phil Foden was awarded the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Player of the Year on Tuesday. Foden played a crucial role in City’s historic fourth consecutive Premier League title win last season, contributing 19 goals and eight assists. The 24-year-old expressed his gratitude, emphasizing the significance of being recognized by his fellow professionals, and thanked his coach Pep Guardiola, City staff, and teammates.
Foden is already focused on securing a fifth consecutive title, following City’s 2-0 win over Chelsea in their opening match of the new season. Last season, Foden also claimed the Premier League Player of the Season and the Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year awards.
City’s Director of Football, Txiki Begiristain, praised Foden, highlighting his talent, humility, and continuous drive to improve. Foden’s teammate, Erling Haaland, Rodri, Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard, Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, and Chelsea’s Cole Palmer were also shortlisted for the Player of the Year award.
Palmer, who was named the PFA Young Player of the Year, marked the first time since 2009-10 that both senior and young player awards went to English players, following Wayne Rooney and James Milner.
Additionally, City continued their dominance in the awards with Khadija Shaw winning the Women’s Player of the Year after becoming the top scorer in the Women’s Super League with 21 goals, narrowly missing out on the title to Chelsea. Shaw expressed her pride and happiness at receiving the award, acknowledging the special honor of being recognized by her peers.
