The Premier League season has come to a close. It was a thrilling ride, full of excitement and drama. But who were the standout players and managers? Let’s take a look at some of the best of the best.
Player of the Year
The top players in the league were truly exceptional. Virgil van Dijk was a towering presence for Liverpool, transforming their defense into an impenetrable fortress. His impact was undeniable, as he was named Player of the Year by many publications.
But Raheem Sterling had a fantastic season as well, scoring goals and leading Manchester City to another title. He was a force to be reckoned with on the pitch. He was praised for his leadership qualities both on and off the field, notably taking a stand against racism.
There were other standouts, of course, including Bernardo Silva and Sergio Agüero, who were instrumental in City’s success. Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang formed a formidable duo for Arsenal, while Eden Hazard continued to enchant with his dazzling skills for Chelsea.
It was a season of truly talented individuals, each bringing something unique to the game.
Manager of the Year
There were several managers who had outstanding seasons. Pep Guardiola led City to another dominant title win, proving once again his brilliance in the game. Jürgen Klopp took Liverpool to the Champions League Final and almost pulled off a stunning upset against City in the league race. Klopp’s relentless pursuit of excellence and his charismatic leadership were inspiring to watch.
Mauricio Pochettino continued to work magic at Tottenham, steering them to the Champions League Final despite having limited resources compared to some of the other top clubs. His ability to get the most out of his players was truly impressive.
There were other managers who deserve recognition. Nuno Espírito Santo did a fantastic job at Wolves in their first season back in the Premier League, and Ralph Hasenhüttl brought a much-needed injection of energy to Southampton after a disappointing start to the season.
Goal of the Year
The Premier League is known for its spectacular goals. Vincent Kompany‘s long-range screamer for Manchester City against Leicester was arguably the most important goal of the season, as it was crucial in their title victory. The sheer power and audacity of the strike was incredible.
However, Andros Townsend‘s stunning volley for Crystal Palace against Manchester City was a contender for goal of the season. It was a moment of pure brilliance and a reminder that even a team as dominant as City can be taken by surprise.
Other standout goals included Fabian Schär‘s rocket for Newcastle and Junior Hoilett‘s sumptuous strike for Cardiff.
Match of the Year
The top teams in the Premier League consistently produce matches of the highest quality. The Manchester City vs. Liverpool clashes were particularly intense, with both teams playing at an incredibly high level.
The Manchester City 2-1 Liverpool game at the Etihad Stadium was a true thriller, with both teams giving their all and the title race hanging in the balance. The game was a showcase of tactical brilliance and relentless pressure.
The Arsenal 4-2 Tottenham derby was another memorable match, with a flurry of goals and a touchline scuffle. It was a North London derby that lived up to the hype.
Most Improved Player
The Premier League often sees young players make significant strides in their development. James Maddison had a breakout season at Leicester, showcasing his talent and maturity at the age of 22. His vision, creativity, and impressive passing range were a joy to watch.
David Brooks also enjoyed a remarkable season at Bournemouth, establishing himself as a key player for the Cherries and proving his quality on the Premier League stage.
It was a season of exciting young talent, showcasing the potential of the future generation of Premier League stars.
Biggest Disappointment
Unfortunately, not every player or team lives up to expectations. Fulham‘s summer signings were a huge disappointment, as the club struggled to adapt to life back in the Premier League.
Manchester United also endured a frustrating season, failing to challenge for the top spots and underperforming under both José Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjær.
The most disappointing aspect of the season was the return of racism. After the progress made in tackling the issue, the incidents that occurred across all levels of the game served as a stark reminder that the battle against racism is far from over.
Changes for Next Season
The Premier League is constantly evolving, and there will be several changes to look forward to next season. The introduction of VAR is expected to have a significant impact on the game, with supporters hoping that it will improve the accuracy of refereeing decisions.
There is also the question of financial inequality. The “big six” clubs are pushing for a greater share of the overseas broadcasting income, which could further widen the gap between the top teams and the rest of the league. This could create a less competitive and less exciting league for fans.
The Premier League is a vibrant and exciting league, but it faces some challenges. It’s essential to address these issues and create a more equitable and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
