The Liverpool superstar becomes the first player to win the prestigious honor three times, reflecting on his journey from Egypt to the pinnacle of English football.
In a ceremony in Manchester, Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah made history, becoming the first player ever to be named the PFA Men’s Player of the Year for a third time. The Egyptian King, who previously won the award in 2018 and 2022, was recognized for a stunning season where he scored 29 goals and provided 18 assists to fire Liverpool to the Premier League title.
Overcome with emotion, Salah dedicated the award to his roots and his journey. “I look at myself now, a guy coming from Egypt and making it to the top level, making history today, it’s something that makes me so proud,” he told the audience.
He faced stiff competition for the trophy, beating out a shortlist that included his Liverpool teammate Alexis Mac Allister, Chelsea’s breakthrough star Cole Palmer, Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes, Arsenal’s midfield engine Declan Rice, and Newcastle’s prolific Alexander Isak.
When asked about Liverpool’s prospects for the new season following a summer of significant transfer spending, Salah was cautiously optimistic. “You can’t say yes or no; it’s tricky,” he admitted. “We’re signing very good talent, but we also let some great players leave.”
He emphasized the unique pressure of playing for a club of Liverpool’s stature and the responsibility he and other senior players like Virgil van Dijk feel in guiding new signings. “Playing for Liverpool is not easy at all… It’s a huge pressure for the young players. We try to give them our experience to help them.”
The evening also celebrated other outstanding talents across the football pyramid. Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers was named Young Player of the Year, joining an elite list of former winners like Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney. “Later down the line, I want to be one of those incredible players people speak about,” Rogers told BBC Sport.
In the women’s game, Arsenal’s Mariona Caldentey was voted Women’s Player of the Year after inspiring her team to Champions League glory, with her teammate Olivia Smith taking the Young Player award.
The professional awards also recognized stars from the lower leagues, with new Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford (Championship), QPR’s new striker Richard Kone (League One), and Bromley’s Michael Cheek (League Two) all being honored for their exceptional seasons.
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