PFA Player of the Year: Salah & Calde Crowned

There’s a special kind of excitement in football that comes from watching two stories unfold at once: the established superstar cementing their legacy and the rising talent announcing their arrival. This year’s PFA awards celebrated both. We saw a living legend make history with a record-breaking third Player of the Year title, a testament to his sustained dominance. At the same time, a new generation of stars in both the men’s and women’s games showed us a thrilling glimpse of the future. This is a celebration of the entire spectrum of footballing excellence, from the seasoned veterans to the fearless young guns.

Key Takeaways

Peer Recognition is the Ultimate Honor: The PFA awards are voted on by the players themselves, making them the gold standard for individual achievement. Earning respect from your direct competitors is the clearest sign of a player’s true impact on the game.
Excellence is More Than Just Stats: This year’s top players combine elite technical skill with incredible mental strength and leadership. They consistently deliver in high-pressure moments and elevate the performance of their entire team.
The Awards Spotlight Both Present and Future Greats: By honoring established legends and rising stars, the PFA awards provide a complete picture of the sport. They celebrate the players defining the game today and those who will shape it for years to come.

Who Clinched the PFA Men’s Player of the Year Title?

When it comes to individual honors in football, the PFA Player of the Year award holds a special kind of weight. Voted on by the players themselves, it’s a true mark of respect from your peers—the very people who know exactly what it takes to compete at the highest level. This year, the honor went to a player who has consistently defined excellence in the Premier League.

Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah took home the coveted prize, and it’s a win that cements his legacy not just at his club, but in the league itself. His season was a masterclass in attacking football, blending lethal finishing with incredible vision and playmaking. While team trophies are the ultimate goal, this individual recognition from fellow professionals speaks volumes about the impact he had on the pitch, week in and week out. Let’s break down exactly what made his season so spectacular.

A Historic Third Win for Mo Salah

This isn’t just another trophy for Salah’s cabinet; it’s a history-making moment. By securing this award, Mohamed Salah became the first player ever to be named the PFA Men’s Player of the Year for a third time. This remarkable achievement places him in a league of his own, underscoring a level of sustained dominance that’s incredibly rare in the fast-paced, highly competitive world of the Premier League. To earn the respect of your fellow players once is an honor, but to do it three times shows a consistent, undeniable impact on the game that few can match.

The Record-Breaking Stats Behind His Season

So, what did it take to earn that historic third title? The numbers tell a compelling story. Across all competitions in the 2022-2023 season, Salah was simply electric, scoring an incredible 34 goals and providing 23 assists. These figures highlight his pivotal role in Liverpool’s campaign, proving he’s far more than just a goal scorer. His ability to create chances for his teammates makes him a complete attacking threat, and it’s this dual danger that left defenders across the country struggling to contain him all season long.

Liverpool’s Golden Boot King

While his contributions were felt across every competition, Salah’s performance in the Premier League was particularly dominant. He found the back of the net 19 times and added another 12 assists, once again demonstrating his elite playmaking skills. This incredible output not only drove Liverpool forward but also earned him the league’s Golden Boot. His detailed stats for the season confirm what fans already knew: when it comes to finding a way to score or create a goal, there are very few players in the world on his level.

Meet Marina Calde: The Women’s Player of the Year

While Mo Salah was making headlines in the men’s league, Mariona Caldentey was crafting a season for the ages in the Women’s Super League. If you haven’t been following her career, now is the time to start. As the newly crowned Women’s Player of the Year, Caldentey has proven she’s one of the most dynamic and intelligent players in the game today. Her vision on the field is second to none, and her ability to change the course of a match with a single pass or a perfectly timed run has left defenses scrambling all season. She’s not just a player who fills a position; she’s a player who defines it.

Arsenal’s Midfield Maestro

At the heart of Arsenal’s formidable squad is Mariona Caldentey, the midfield engine that makes the team go. She has an incredible knack for controlling the tempo of the game, whether she’s breaking up an opponent’s attack or launching one of her own. Her tactical awareness is off the charts, allowing her to be a constant threat both on and off the ball. It’s this blend of defensive grit and offensive creativity that made her an invaluable asset to her club and ultimately earned her the prestigious title of Women’s Super League Player of the Year. She’s the kind of player every team wishes they had.

The Performances That Defined Her Season

Every great player has those moments that define their season, and for Caldentey, there were plenty to choose from. One of the most memorable was her remarkable performance in the nail-biting 4-3 victory over Manchester City. In a high-pressure match with everything on the line, she stepped up big time, scoring an early goal to set the tone and later delivering a critical assist. This game was a perfect snapshot of what makes her so special: her composure under pressure and her uncanny ability to be in the right place at the right time. She’s a true game-changer.

Success on the International Stage

Caldentey’s incredible talent isn’t just on display for her club. She has been a vital component of the Spanish national team’s recent string of successes. Wearing her country’s colors, she brings the same leadership, skill, and determination that Arsenal fans have come to love. Her ability to perform consistently at the highest level, both domestically and internationally, solidifies her status as one of the world’s elite players. As she continues to collect accolades and lead her teams to victory, it’s clear that Mariona Caldentey will be a dominant force in women’s football for years to come.

Spotlight on the PFA’s Rising Stars

While the established stars grab the main headlines, there’s a special kind of excitement that comes from watching young talent announce their arrival on the big stage. These are the players who bring fresh energy to the pitch, challenging the old guard and giving us a glimpse into the future of the sport. They play with a certain fearlessness, unburdened by the weight of expectation that can sometimes follow more seasoned pros. The PFA Young Player of the Year awards are designed to celebrate these breakout performers who have shown skill and maturity far beyond their years. Winning this award is often a sign of a legendary career to come. This year’s crop of rising stars is particularly impressive, featuring a dynamic midfielder who has taken the Premier League by storm, a Canadian prodigy making a name for herself in Europe, and a goalkeeper whose composure under pressure is already the stuff of legend. These three players have not only had incredible individual seasons but have also become vital assets to their teams, proving they can handle the pressure of top-flight football. They represent the next generation of footballing excellence, and their journeys are just getting started.

Morgan Rogers’ Breakout Season

Morgan Rogers has been nothing short of a revelation for Aston Villa. Stepping into the midfield, he played with the confidence of a seasoned veteran, racking up an incredible 13 goals and 9 assists across all competitions. His performances were so consistently brilliant that he was named the PFA Young Player of the Year for the 2024/25 season. It’s not just the stats that are impressive; it’s the way he controls the game. His vision, power, and technical skill have led to scouts raving about his talent, with some likening him to greats like Yaya Toure and Jude Bellingham. For Villa fans, he’s quickly become the player they look to for a moment of magic.

The Rapid Rise of Olivia Smith

Olivia Smith’s career trajectory has been meteoric. After becoming the youngest player to ever debut for the Canadian women’s national team at just 15, she has continued to shatter expectations. Now playing for Sporting CP in Portugal, Smith is proving that she can compete at the highest levels of European football. Her speed, creativity, and fearless approach have made her a standout forward and a nightmare for defenders. Smith’s journey from a teenage prodigy in North America to a key player for a top European club is a testament to her immense talent and dedication. She represents a new wave of Canadian soccer stars making their mark on the global stage.

James Trafford’s Championship Excellence

When you talk about goalkeepers with bright futures, James Trafford’s name is always part of the conversation. He truly captured the spotlight during the UEFA European Under-21 Championship, where he didn’t concede a single goal and famously saved a last-minute penalty in the final to secure the trophy for England. That kind of composure is rare at any age. His performances earned him a high-profile move to Burnley, where he has continued to showcase his exceptional shot-stopping and command of the penalty area. Trafford has all the tools to become one of the best keepers in the game, and his time in the Championship will be crucial for his development into a top-tier talent.

What Makes the PFA Awards So Prestigious?

In the world of football, trophies and accolades are handed out all the time. But if you ask any player which award they truly want on their mantelpiece, the PFA Player of the Year award is almost always at the top of the list. It’s not just another piece of silverware; it’s a symbol of ultimate respect. This award signifies that you weren’t just great, but that your greatness was recognized by the very people you competed against on the pitch. It’s a different level of validation.

What gives the PFA Awards this unique weight? It’s a combination of who votes, the breadth of talent it recognizes, and the incredible history behind it. Unlike awards decided by journalists or fans, this one comes from within the locker room. It’s an honor steeped in tradition, with a winners’ list that reads like a who’s who of football legends. Earning a PFA award means your name is etched alongside the best to ever play the game, a legacy that lasts long after the season ends.

Why a Player-Voted Award Matters Most

Think about it: who knows a player’s true ability better than their direct opponents? The defenders who’ve been twisted inside out by a winger’s skill, the midfielders who’ve battled for 90 minutes, the strikers who’ve been shut down by a world-class center-back—these are the voters. This peer recognition is what makes the PFA award the gold standard. It cuts through the noise of media narratives and fan popularity contests. The players have an intimate understanding of performance levels and technical skill that no one else does. Earning their vote means you’ve earned their genuine respect, which is arguably the highest honor a professional athlete can receive.

A Breakdown of the Award Categories

The PFA Awards celebrate the best talent across the men’s and women’s games, ensuring excellence is recognized at every level. The main events are, of course, the Men’s Player of the Year and the Women’s Player of the Year awards. Alongside these are the Young Player of the Year awards for both men and women, highlighting the most exciting emerging talent. This year, the top honors went to Liverpool’s Mo Salah and Arsenal’s Marina Calde. Meanwhile, the young player awards were clinched by Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers and Olivia Smith, showcasing the bright future of the sport. These categories ensure that both seasoned veterans and breakout stars get their moment in the spotlight.

The History Behind the Honor

A big part of the PFA Awards’ prestige comes from its rich history. This isn’t a new, flashy trophy; it’s an institution in English football. When a player wins, they join an exclusive club of legends. This year, Mohamed Salah made history by becoming the first player to win the men’s award for a third time, putting him in a category all his own. Looking back at the list of past winners is like taking a walk through football history, with names like Kenny Dalglish, Thierry Henry, and Cristiano Ronaldo dotting the timeline. To have your name added to that list is to secure your legacy in the sport forever.

What Sets These Winners Apart?

Winning Player of the Year isn’t just about having a great season; it’s about defining it. Mohamed Salah and Mariona Caldentey consistently delivered moments of brilliance, demonstrated exceptional skill, and led their teams with authority. They are the players who change the course of a game with a single touch. Let’s break down what made them the undisputed choices for this year’s top honors.

Unmatched Technical Skill

When you watch Mo Salah, you’re seeing a master at work. This season, he tallied an incredible 34 goals and 23 assists, proving he’s as much a playmaker as a finisher. His non-penalty goals per 90 minutes rate was 0.47, placing him in the 91st percentile among elite forwards. He consistently scores from open play, a testament to his technical ability. Similarly, Mariona Caldentey was the creative engine in Arsenal’s midfield. Her vision and precise passing controlled the game’s tempo, turning defensive plays into attacking opportunities in an instant.

The Moments That Won Matches

The true greats deliver when the pressure is on. Salah has built a career on being the man for big moments. His historic third Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) men’s player of the year award reflects his ability to score the goals that matter. He’s the player opponents fear in the final minutes. Caldentey shares that same clutch gene. Her contributions were pivotal in Arsenal’s most important games, often stepping up with a game-winning assist or goal. Her performance is why she was voted the WSL Player of the Season.

Leading from the Front

Talent alone doesn’t win this award; leadership is crucial. Salah expressed pride in winning the Men’s PFA Players’ Player of the Year award for a third time, and that responsibility shows on the pitch. He leads by example, setting a high standard that inspires his teammates. On the Arsenal side, Caldentey’s leadership was a constant source of strength. She’s a calming, inspirational presence whose work rate and positive attitude are contagious. Her ability to elevate the play of everyone around her is the hallmark of a true leader.

The Blueprint for Football Excellence

Winning a prestigious award like the PFA Player of the Year isn’t just about having a few great games. It’s the result of a formula—a blueprint that separates the good from the truly legendary. Players like Mo Salah and Marina Calde don’t just show up on match day and hope for the best. Their success is built on a foundation of relentless work, unshakable mental toughness, and the ability to make their entire team better. It’s a combination that’s easy to admire but incredibly difficult to replicate.

This blueprint isn’t a secret, but it demands a level of commitment that few can sustain. It’s about what happens on the training ground when no one is watching, the resilience to bounce back from a tough loss, and the leadership that inspires teammates to play harder. These winners have mastered all three aspects of the game. They’ve shown that talent will only get you so far; it’s the dedication to the craft and the strength of character that truly defines a champion. Let’s break down the core components that powered this year’s winners to the top.

Dedication, Training, and Development

You don’t become the first player to win the PFA Men’s Player of the Year three times by accident. Mohamed Salah’s historic achievement is a direct result of his incredible work ethic. His relentless dedication to training and personal development has become the gold standard for any footballer with serious aspirations. While fans see the goals and celebrations on the weekend, the real work is done during the week. It’s the extra hours in the gym, the focus on nutrition, and the constant drive to refine every aspect of his game that sets him apart. This consistent effort is what turns a great season into a legendary career.

The Mental Strength of a Champion

Skill can get you to the top, but it’s mental fortitude that keeps you there. The pressure of performing for a club like Liverpool, with millions of fans watching every move, is immense. Salah’s ability to maintain such a high level of performance year after year is a testament to his mental strength. When he expressed his pride in winning the award for a third time, it wasn’t just about the trophy; it was recognition for the resilience required to stay at the peak of English football. Handling criticism, overcoming injuries, and consistently delivering in high-stakes moments requires a level of mental toughness that few possess.

Elevating the Entire Team

Perhaps the greatest compliment a player can receive is respect from their peers. The PFA awards are voted on by fellow professionals—the very people who face them on the pitch. This isn’t a popularity contest; it’s an acknowledgment of true excellence from those who know the game best. As one report noted, player votes have credibility because they understand an opponent’s performance level intimately. A player like Salah doesn’t just score goals; he draws defenders, creates space, and inspires his teammates to play at a higher level. The best players make everyone around them better, and that impact is what their fellow pros recognize and respect the most.

What’s Next for This Year’s Winners?

Winning a PFA award is a massive achievement, but for athletes like Mo Salah and Mariona Caldentey, it’s just another milestone in careers defined by relentless progress. They aren’t the types to rest on their laurels. Instead, these awards fuel their drive to push boundaries, redefine what’s possible in their sport, and leave a lasting legacy for those who will follow in their footsteps. So, what does the future hold for this year’s top players? It’s all about building on this incredible momentum.

The Potential to Break More Records

For Mohamed Salah, this isn’t just another trophy for the case. He made history by becoming the first player ever to secure the PFA Men’s Player of the Year award for a third time. After a season where he tallied an incredible 34 goals and 23 assists, it’s clear he’s still at the peak of his powers. The question now isn’t if he’ll break more records, but which ones and how soon. Every goal he scores and every game he plays from here on out adds another layer to his legendary status. He’s not just chasing records anymore; he’s creating a new tier of excellence for others to chase.

Setting a New Standard for the Sport

What makes the PFA awards so special is that they’re voted on by fellow players—the very people who face these athletes on the pitch. This peer recognition gives the award a unique credibility that fan-voted accolades can’t match. By winning for a third time, Salah has set a new benchmark for greatness in the modern era. He’s not just a fan favorite; he’s the player that other professionals recognize as the best. This achievement sends a clear message to everyone in the league about the level of consistency and skill required to be considered a true great of the game.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Players

The impact of these awards extends far beyond the pitch. Mariona Caldentey’s win as the Women’s Player of the Year shines a massive spotlight on the incredible talent and growth in women’s football. Her success provides a powerful example for young girls who dream of playing professionally. Both Salah and Caldentey serve as incredible role models, proving that dedication and passion can lead to the highest honors in sports. They show aspiring athletes everywhere that with hard work, it’s possible to not only compete at the highest level but to be recognized by your peers as the absolute best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is winning a PFA award such a big deal for players? This award is considered the ultimate honor because the votes come from fellow professional players. It’s one thing for fans or journalists to recognize your talent, but it’s another level entirely when your direct opponents—the people who face you on the pitch every week—name you the best. It’s a sign of genuine respect for your skill and impact on the game.

What made Mohamed Salah’s win historic this year? His win was a true landmark moment because he became the first player in history to be named the PFA Men’s Player of the Year for a third time. This achievement places him in a category all his own and speaks to his incredible consistency and dominance in one of the world’s toughest leagues over several years.

Who was the standout player in the Women’s Super League? Arsenal’s Mariona Caldentey took home the Women’s Player of the Year title. She was the engine of her team’s midfield, known for her exceptional vision and ability to control the flow of the game. She consistently stepped up in crucial matches, delivering game-changing goals and assists that defined Arsenal’s season.

Besides the main awards, who are the up-and-coming players to watch? The PFA also recognizes the next generation of talent with its Young Player of the Year awards. This year, the spotlight was on Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers, a dynamic midfielder who had a phenomenal breakout season, and Olivia Smith, a Canadian prodigy making a huge impact in Europe with Sporting CP.

Is it just about scoring goals, or does it take more to be named Player of the Year? It takes far more than just impressive stats. While goals and assists are important, the winners are players who demonstrate leadership, mental resilience, and the ability to make their entire team better. They are the ones who perform under pressure and inspire their teammates, which is what truly sets them apart in the eyes of their peers.

Meet the PFA Players of the Year: Salah & Calde