The 2023/24 Premier League season has once again proven to be a thrilling spectacle, with players across the league displaying incredible skill, determination, and talent.
Recognizing these remarkable performances, the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) recently announced its prestigious Team of the Year, highlighting those who have shone the brightest over the course of the season.
The much-anticipated announcement was made via the PFA’s official social media platform on Tuesday, setting the stage for further celebrations of excellence in English football.
The PFA Team of the Year serves as a testament to the remarkable blend of defensive resilience, midfield creativity, and attacking brilliance that has defined the Premier League this season. Comprised of standout performers from various clubs, the team reflects the diverse talent pool within the league.
2023/24 PFA Premier League Team of the Year
Goalkeeper: David Raya (Arsenal)
David Raya of Arsenal has been nothing short of outstanding between the posts. Known for his sharp reflexes and calm presence under pressure, Raya’s ability to command his area and pull off crucial saves has been integral to Arsenal’s defensive success this season.
Defenders: Kyle Walker (Manchester City), William Saliba (Arsenal), Gabriel (Arsenal), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)
In defense, Manchester City’s Kyle Walker leads the line with his incredible pace and experience. Arsenal’s William Saliba and Gabriel have forged a solid partnership at the heart of Arsenal’s backline, with their understanding and strength keeping opposition forwards at bay. Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk, a perennial favorite in any top team selection, continues to prove why he is regarded as one of the best defenders in the world, with his towering presence and leadership from the back.
Midfielders: Rodri (Manchester City), Declan Rice (Arsenal), Martin Odegaard (Arsenal)
The midfield trio is composed of players who have dominated games with their vision and intelligence. Rodri has been the cornerstone of Manchester City’s midfield, orchestrating play from deep and breaking up opposition attacks with ease. Declan Rice, having made a high-profile move to Arsenal, has lived up to expectations with his tireless work rate and ability to control the tempo of matches. Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard, meanwhile, has been a creative force, leading his side with flair and contributing significantly in both goals and assists.
Forwards: Phil Foden (Manchester City), Erling Haaland (Manchester City), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)
Up front, Manchester City’s Phil Foden and Erling Haaland feature prominently. Foden has dazzled with his dribbling, creativity, and ability to score from various positions, while Haaland has simply been unstoppable. The Norwegian striker has continued to break records with his goalscoring prowess. Completing the front three is Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, whose consistency and ability to find the net have made him a standout performer in the league.
Other PFA Award Winners
The PFA Awards night also saw individual players from across different leagues receive recognition for their stellar performances.
Phil Foden of Manchester City was named Men’s Player of the Year, a reflection of his outstanding contributions throughout the season. The Women’s Player of the Year award went to Bunny Shaw of Manchester City, who has been a dominant force in the Women’s Super League.
Chelsea’s Cole Palmer took home the Men’s Young Player of the Year award, while Manchester United’s Grace Clinton, who is currently on loan at Tottenham, was named Women’s Young Player of the Year.
The Championship Player of the Year honor went to Crysencio Summerville of Leeds United, while Alfie May of Charlton Athletic and Jodi Jones of Notts County were named League One and League Two Players of the Year, respectively.
Team of the Season Across Leagues
The PFA also revealed the Teams of the Season across the Women’s Super League (WSL), Championship, League One, and League Two. These selections, like the Premier League team, are a recognition of the players who have excelled in their respective divisions.
For the WSL, Khiara Keating of Manchester City was named the top goalkeeper, while notable forwards included Lauren James of Chelsea and Bunny Shaw of Manchester City. In the Championship, Leeds’ Illan Meslier was selected as the goalkeeper, with forwards Crysencio Summerville and Adam Armstrong among the standout attackers.
