The most esteemed individual honour in English football has been bestowed, as the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) unveiled its Premier League Team of the Year for the 2023/24 season. The selection, voted for by the players themselves, offers the ultimate peer recognition of the campaign's most outstanding performers.
Sky Blue Dominance in Award-Winning XI
Unsurprisingly, the lineup is heavily decorated in the sky blue of Premier League champions Manchester City. A remarkable five players from Pep Guardiola's history-making squad have been included by their fellow professionals, a testament to their relentless drive for a record fourth consecutive title.
The formidable attacking trio of Erling Haaland and Phil Foden is joined by midfield magician Kevin De Bruyne, defensive rock Ruben Dias, and the ever-reliable goalkeeper Ederson. Their inclusion underscores the all-around strength that propelled City to yet another trophy.
Gunners' Presence Reflects Title Charge
Pushing City to the final day in a gripping title race, Arsenal's impressive season is also reflected in the team. Defensive stalwarts William Saliba and Ben White are rewarded for their part in the league's meanest defence, providing a solid foundation for the Gunners' challenge.
Individual Brilliance Recognised
The team also celebrates standout individual campaigns from rivals. Liverpool's defensive colossus Virgil van Dijk reclaims his spot amongst the elite, while Aston Villa's goal machine Ollie Watkins is honoured after a career-best season in front of goal. Completing the lineup is the mercurial Rodri, the metronome at the heart of Manchester City's dominance, widely regarded as the world's finest in his position.
The full PFA Premier League Team of the Year is:
- Goalkeeper: Ederson (Manchester City)
- Defenders: William Saliba (Arsenal), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Ruben Dias (Manchester City), Ben White (Arsenal)
- Midfielders: Phil Foden (Manchester City), Rodri (Manchester City), Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City)
- Forwards: Erling Haaland (Manchester City), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)
The awards are the highest accolade a player can receive from their peers, marking them out as the very best of the best from a thrilling season of Premier League football.
