Football News Update: Outsiders for PFA Player of the Year
Ahead of the Premier League season starting on the 16th of August, our expert takes a look at three outsiders with a shot at the PFA Player of the Year award.
In recent seasons, Manchester City players have dominated the prestigious accolade, with Kevin De Bruyne winning it in 2019-20 and 2020-21. The Belgian playmaker is the 9/2 favorite to claim the award again this year, with teammates Rodri (11/2), Phil Foden (6/1), and 2022-23 winner Erling Haaland (9/1) also among the frontrunners.
However, there could be some value in looking further afield, and our expert has identified three players who could emerge as dark horses for the PFA Player of the Year title.
Declan Rice (Arsenal) – 10/1
The 25-year-old England midfielder was one of the standout performers at Euro 2024 and could be a prime candidate to land the award if the Gunners can overhaul Manchester City to win the Premier League title. Rice finished second in Arsenal’s Player of the Season voting last year and has continued to grow in stature.
Bukayo Saka (Arsenal) – 12/1
As the Gunners’ main challenger to Manchester City, Arsenal are the most likely alternative club to provide the PFA Player of the Year winner, and Saka could stake a strong claim if he can improve on his impressive tally of 16 league goals last season.
Cole Palmer (Chelsea) – 20/1
While Chelsea may not be in the thick of the title race, the 22-year-old English midfielder could earn recognition from his peers for his standout performances. Palmer scored 22 goals in 33 Premier League appearances last season and could continue to impress under new manager Enzo Maresca.
“The Premier League is always full of surprises, and these three players could break the mold and challenge the Manchester City dominance for the PFA Player of the Year award.” – Our Expert
(Source: bet365, correct at the time of publishing and subject to change)
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