Erling Haaland named PFA Player of the Year as Manchester City win NINE awards at prestigious event

Erling Haaland marked his incredible debut season in the Premier League by becoming the PFA Player of the Year, one of nine awards won by Manchester City players on Tuesday evening.

The 23-year-old striker, who scored a record-breaking 52 goals during his maiden campaign in England, became the first player since Ruud van Nistelrooy to win the prestigious PFA Player of the Year award during their first season.

Haaland helped Manchester City to a famous treble, as Pep Guardiola’s side won the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup.

The Norwegian beat Manchester City teammates Kevin De Bruyne and John Stones, as well as Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka and Harry Kane to the notable award, with the event taking place on Tuesday evening at The Lowry, Salford.

Haaland, who didn’t win the PFA Young Player of the Year award despite being nominated, was also named in the PFA Team of the Year, alongside four Manchester City teammates.

John Stones, Ruben Dias, Kevin De Bruyne, Rodri and Haaland were all named in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year, as Manchester City dominated the award category.

Aaron Ramsdale, William Saliba, Kieran Trippier, Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka and Harry Kane made up the remainder of the 2023 Premier League Team of the Year.

Manchester City Director of Football Txiki Begiristain revealed his delight at the inclusion of the quintet, saying: “Last season was so special and we’re delighted to see so many of our players recognised for their incredible contribution.

“I know, for them, it’s a big honour to be selected by your fellow professionals.  

“The whole squad were outstanding and it’s a very proud moment for the Club to have five players named in the Team of the Year.  

“They have such a hunger and desire to bring success which we saw last season and we have already witnessed in the opening weeks of this season.”

The Manchester City Women’s team also enjoyed success at the PFA Awards, with trio Alex Greenwood, Yui Hasegawa and Bunny Shaw all named in the WSL Team of the Year.

Praising the trio, Gavin Makel, Managing Director of Manchester City Women, said: “We’re delighted to see Alex, Yui and Bunny recognised with a place in the PFA Team of the Season.  

“Like their team-mates, they have each worked incredibly hard to bring success to the Club and are each fully deserving of their inclusion.  

“They embody what this team and Club is all about: hard work, consistency and quality both on and off the pitch.”