The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) awards was at the front burner on Tuesday, August 29, 2023.
Players who eschewed quality during the 2022/23 season were saluted for their efforts and duly recognized.
Some of these players are world-beaters while others are rapidly developing into special talents.
These players powered their clubs throughout the 2022/23 season, and recognizing them for their input was well deserved.
From Erling Haaland who led Manchester City to the treble to Bukayo Saka who played an active role in the resurgence of Arsenal, these players truly exhibited class during the 2022/23 season.
The undeniable brilliance of Mary Earps in goal for the Manchester United Women’s Team didn’t also go without being noticed.
Fans also had their say as they had their choice and picks for the Player Of the Year, Male and Female.
Erling Haaland scoops home PFA Players’ Player of the Year award
Manchester City’s fiery attacker Haaland was awarded the Players’ Player of the Year award for his impressive showing in the 2022/23 season.
Erling Haaland scored 36 goals and provided 8 assists in 35 Premier League appearances last term.
The Norwegian had a seismic impact at Manchester City last season, helping the club win the treble; Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League.
He has also resumed duties on an impressive note, scoring 3 goals in 3 league appearances in the 2023/24 season.
Bukayo Saka Earns PFA Young Player of the Year award:
Saka was rewarded for his impressive showing in the 2022/23 season, as he picked up the Young Player of the Year award.
The England international picked up the award, ahead of teammate Gabriel Martinelli.
Bukayo Saka was remarkable for Arsenal last term, scoring 15 goals and providing 15 assists in 38 appearances across all competitions.
He was instrumental to the Gunners’ charge for the title last season, before unfortunately losing the race to Manchester City.
Ian Wright wins PFA Merit Award
The Arsenal legend won the PFA Merit Award for his remarkable career in the round leather game.
The 59-year-old was impressive for the Gunners, scoring 168 goals and providing 12 assists across all competitions in 269 appearances.
He also represented other English teams, namely; Burnley FC, Crystal Palace, West Ham United, and Nottingham Forest.
Rachel Daly wins PFA Players’ Player of the Year award (Female):
Daly was recognized for her outstanding contribution to Aston Villa last term, where she scored 22 goals in 22 Women’s Super League appearances.
She was integral for Aston Villa last term, assisting the side to a 5th-place finish last term.
Lauren James Snaps Home Players’ Young Player of the Year (Female):
The Chelsea and England star was handed the Young Player of the Year award for her immense efforts last term.
Lauren James scored 5 goals and provided 2 assists in 18 league appearances last term.
Lauren was scintillating in the 2022/23 season, helping Chelsea win the Women’s Super League and Women’s FA Cup.
The PFA Awards 2023 list of winners
PFA Players’ Player of the Year (Male): Erling Haaland
PFA Players’ Young Player of the Year (Male): Bukayo Saka
PFA Players’ Player of the Year (Female): Rachel Daly
PFA Players’ Young Player of the Year (Female): Laura James
PFA Merit Award: Ian Wright PFA
PFA Team of the Year: Aaron Ramsdale, John Stones, Ruben Dias, William Saliba, Kieran Trippier, Kevin de Bruyne, Rodri, Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, Harry Kane, Erling Haaland.
Meanwhile, Afrobeat great and music star Davido performed at the event, entertaining the audience who came to witness the award.
Davido delivered in style as always providing great tunes to the crowd in attendance at the event.