PFA Young Player of the Year Nominees for 2024

The nominees for the 2024 Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) Young Player of the Year awards have been announced, featuring representatives from Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester United. This announcement stakes the anticipation for both men's and women's honors, The Standard reported.

Men's Nominations

Prominent Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka, who won the award last year, is nominated again. He's contending against Chelsea’s prolific forward Cole Palmer, who joined Chelsea from Manchester City and delivered 33 goals and numerous assists in the Premier League. With 20 goals and 14 assists in the latest season, Saka was pivotal in Arsenal’s title contention and England’s journey to the Euro 2024 finals.

Manchester United marks its presence with Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho on the shortlist. Mainoo, fresh from a breakthrough midfield campaign and crucial performances in the FA Cup, played a vital role in United’s FA Cup win securing significant goals. Garnacho, as an Argentine forward, added 10 critical goals to United's tally across competitions.

Also nominated for the men’s award are Michael Olise, who translated his successful stint at Crystal Palace into a high-value move to Bayern Munich, and Joao Pedro of Brighton with his impactful debut season yielding 20 goals.

Women’s Nominations

Chelsea’s Lauren James, last season's top-scorer contributing 13 goals in 16 matches, is a hot contender for the women's title. However, she faces tough competition from several standout performers.

Lauren James’ Chelsea teammate, Aggie Beever-Jones, noted for her 11 goals in a breakthrough season and England debut, shares the nomination along with Manchester City goalkeeper Khiara Keating. The winner of the WSL's Golden Glove rescued City with nine clean sheets.

From Manchester United, defender Maya Le Tissier and midfielder Grace Clinton are also finalists. Clinton’s impressive season at Tottenham owned her England caps. Meanwhile, Jess Park of Manchester City is celebrated for her significant contributions towards the team’s title vision.

The forthcoming PFA Awards ceremony lined for August 21 will declare the winners of these prestigious accolades. And looking forward, no lack of spirited competitiveness and exemplary young talent sheds light on English football’s promising future.

Earlier, SSP reported that Callum McGregor retired from International football.