Eight nominees but only one can win!
Phil Foden (Man City)
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Manchester City’s 23-year-old Academy graduate is having a breakthrough season under Pep Guardiola’s guidance! Being utilized in a central attacking role highlights Guardiola’s ability to identify and maximize players’ strengths within his system. Contributing to 24 goals, including two hat-tricks, is an outstanding achievement and speaks volumes about the player’s talent and impact on the team’s success. As City pushes to make history by winning four consecutive Premier League titles, having such a dynamic midfielder in their ranks undoubtedly strengthens their chances. It’s exciting to see young talents thrive and play pivotal roles in their team’s pursuit of glory.
Erling Haaland (Man City)
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Last season’s record breaker is having another remarkable season! Scoring 25 goals in just 28 appearances is an incredible feat, showcasing his clinical finishing and importance to his team’s attacking prowess. Additionally, setting up five goals for his teammates demonstrates his versatility and ability to contribute to the overall team effort. Being one of only three players this season to reach 30 goal involvements further highlights his impact on the team’s success. As he aims to retain the Golden Boot award he won last season, it’s clear that he’s established himself as one of the best goal-scorers in the league. His consistency and productivity are undoubtedly crucial assets for his team’s aspirations.
Alexander Isak (Newcastle)
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Alexander Isak is making quite an impact at Newcastle United! With 21 goal involvements in just 27 matches, he’s been a key player for the team this season. His achievement of being the first Newcastle player since Alan Shearer in 2002/03 to reach 20 goals in a Premier League season is truly remarkable and speaks volumes about his goal-scoring prowess. Additionally, boasting a minutes-per-goal rate of 101.3, second only to Haaland’s 91.8 among players with more than two goals, further highlights Isak’s efficiency and effectiveness in front of goal. At just 24 years old, Isak seems to have a bright future ahead, and his contributions will undoubtedly be crucial for Newcastle’s success moving forward.
Martin Odegaard (Arsenal)
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Arsenal’s captain is having a stellar season and leading from the front in their quest for the Premier League title! Scoring eight goals and providing eight assists demonstrates his ability to contribute both offensively and as a playmaker for the team. Creating 94 chances, the second most in the league showcases his creativity and vision on the field, which is crucial for breaking down opposition defenses. Additionally, being a key part of Arsenal’s pressing game highlights his work rate and defensive contribution to the team’s overall strategy. At just 25 years old, he seems to be reaching the peak of his career and is undoubtedly a vital asset for Arsenal’s ambitions.
Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
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Cole Palmer has had an outstanding debut season at Stamford Bridge, making a significant impact since joining from Manchester City. Matching the likes of Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard’s Chelsea record of 16 home Premier League goals in a single season is a remarkable achievement, especially for a young player. Additionally, becoming only the third player in history to achieve 30+ goal involvements in a Premier League season at the age of 21 or younger, following in the footsteps of legends like Robbie Fowler and Chris Sutton, further highlights his exceptional talent and contribution to the team. The English international’s performances have surely excited Chelsea fans and bode well for his future at the club.
Declan Rice (Arsenal)
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Declan Rice has made a remarkable transition in his debut season for Arsenal, following his transfer from West Ham United. Under the tutelage of Mikel Arteta, Rice’s style of play has changed significantly, from a pure holding midfielder to a dynamic box-to-box player, exemplified by his impressive contributions to the team. Rice’s impact on Arsenal’s attack has been significant, with him directly contributing to 15 goals in the season. Additionally, he has also been a crucial player in the team’s defensive efforts, making a staggering 79 tackles and 43 interceptions, thereby proving his worth as an all-round player.
Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)
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Liverpool’s Dutch center-back, Virgil van Dijk, is having an exceptional season, showcasing his immense talent and impact on the team’s defensive solidity. Returning to his best form after injury setbacks is impressive, especially in Jurgen Klopp’s final season at the club. Van Dijk’s ability to make the third-most passes in the league highlights his composure on the ball and his importance in Liverpool’s build-up play from the back. Additionally, being dribbled past only twice all season showcases his defensive awareness and ability to read the game effectively. His 186 duels won, the second most of any center-back, further emphasizes his dominance in aerial and physical battles. Van Dijk’s contributions have undoubtedly been crucial for Liverpool’s success, and he remains one of the premier defenders in world football.
Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)
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Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins is having a phenomenal season, leading the league in goal involvements, and making a significant impact in both scoring and creating goals. With 19 goals, he’s currently fourth in the race for the Golden Boot, showcasing his prowess in front of goal. Additionally, his 12 assists put him two clear in the hunt for the Castrol Playmaker award, highlighting his versatility and ability to contribute to his team’s attacking play in multiple ways. At 28 years old, he seems to be hitting the peak of his career and is undoubtedly a key figure for Aston Villa’s success this season.
Written by Marc Strydom.