Phil Foden wins PFA Player of the Year: Decoding stats
Manchester City's Phil Foden has been named the Professional Footballers's Association (PFA) Men's Player of the Year. Foden had an expectional campaign with Man City, guiding his side to a 4th successive league trophy. Foden had earlier won the 2023-24 Premier League Player of the Season award and was named the Football Writers' Association (FWA) footballer of the year. The Englishman has been one of the best performers in Europe over the last few years. We decode his stats.
Foden expresses gratitude for prestigious award
Foden expressed his pride and gratitude upon receiving the award, stating, "To win this award is something very special and it is one that I am very proud of and grateful for." He further emphasized the significance of being recognized by fellow professionals in this manner. The Manchester City midfielder thanked everyone who voted for him, underscoring the importance of their support in his journey.
Foden's remarkable performance in 2023-24 season
Foden's exceptional performance in the 2023-24 season saw him score 19 goals in 35 top-flight appearances, contributing significantly to Manchester City's historic fourth consecutive Premier League win. At just 23 years old, he became the youngest player ever to have won six league titles. This is Foden's first time being named PFA's Player of the Year, after previously being recognized as the best young player twice.
Foden outshines fellow nominees for PFA award
Foden outperformed his City teammates Erling Haaland and Rodri, Chelsea's Cole Palmer, Arsenal's Martin Odegaard, and Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins to clinch the PFA award. This achievement adds to his already impressive accolades from the 2023-24 season, including the Premier League Player of the Season award and being named Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers's Association (FWA).
Foden's Premier League 2023-24 season in stats
Foden made 35 Premier League appearances in the 2023-24 season. He scored 19 goals and went on to provide 8 assists. As per Squawka comparison matrix (data by Opta), Foden clocked 64 shots (excluding blocks) with 48 of them on target. He created 70 chances and had a pass accuracy of 89.1%. Foden completed 47 take-ons and 70 lay-offs. He had 203 touches in the opposition box. He also own 138 ground duels.
Chelsea's Palmer named PFA Young Player of the Year
Chelsea winger Palmer was honored as the PFA Young Player of the Year. He was involved in 33 goals Premier League goals. He scored 22 goals and made 11 assists from 33 appearances for the Blues. He made one league appearance for City before joining Chelsea. His outstanding form also earned him a place in the England squad for Euro 2024, where he scored in the final against Spain. Recently, Palmer signed a two-year contract extension at Chelsea until 2033.
