Foden scored 19 goals for City as they won a fourth straight Premier League title.
Manchester City Stars Shine at PFA Awards: Foden and Shaw Take Top Honors
In a dazzling display of football excellence, Manchester City's Phil Foden and Khadija 'Bunny' Shaw were named the Men's and Women's Players of the Year, respectively, at the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) awards held on Tuesday evening. Their exceptional performances over the past season have not only captivated fans but also earned them the highest accolades from their peers.
Foden, at just 24 years old, was instrumental in Manchester City's triumphant defense of their Premier League title. With 19 goals and 8 assists to his name, Foden's contributions were crucial as City secured their fourth consecutive league crown. His dynamic play and consistent performances throughout the season have rightfully earned him recognition as the best in the men's game.
On the women's side, Jamaican forward Khadija 'Bunny' Shaw showcased her goal-scoring prowess by finishing as the top scorer in the Women's Super League with an impressive 21 goals. Despite Manchester City falling short of the title to Chelsea on goal difference, Shaw's outstanding season was a beacon of hope and a testament to her skill and determination.
In addition to the top player awards, the PFA also honored Chelsea's Cole Palmer with the Men's Young Player of the Year award. Palmer's breakthrough season saw him net 22 goals, making him the second-highest scorer in the Premier League behind Erling Haaland, and provide 11 assists—more than any other Chelsea player. His performances have set him apart as one of the brightest young talents in English football.
For the women's young player category, Manchester United's Grace Clinton earned the award following a standout season on loan at Tottenham. Clinton's contributions, including 4 goals and 4 assists in 20 Women's Super League appearances, highlighted her potential and growth as a rising star in the game.
The evening also celebrated the remarkable careers of Fara Williams and Dean Lewington with the PFA Merit Awards. Williams, England's most capped player with 172 appearances and 40 goals, was honored for her significant contributions to the Lionesses and her inspiring journey overcoming homelessness during her career. Dean Lewington, a stalwart of MK Dons, received the award for his extraordinary dedication and longevity, setting the EFL record for most appearances with a single club—771 in total.
West Ham's Crysencio Summerville was named Championship Player of the Year after a standout season with Leeds, scoring 21 goals across all competitions. Alfie May, now with Birmingham, claimed the League One Player of the Year title, having scored a league-high 23 goals for Charlton last season. Notts County's Jodi Jones rounded off the evening’s accolades by winning League Two Player of the Year, thanks to an impressive 24 assists—an English league record.
The PFA awards continue to celebrate and recognize the exceptional talent and achievements within English football, reflecting a season full of memorable moments and outstanding individual performances.
