The Premier League Breakthrough Player Award: A New Approach
The PFA (Professional Footballers’ Association) Young Player of the Year award needs a revamp. Eligibility, limited to players aged 21 or under at the start of the season, has rewarded already established figures such as Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, and Cole Palmer. The Premier League version, which allows players up to 23 years old, has also been criticized, as in the case of Erling Haaland.
Current football demands a review. Elite footballers debut at increasingly younger ages, with many important matches and tournaments at 21 or 23 years old. The spirit of the Young Player of the Year award is to recognize young promises. Therefore, we are inspired by the NBA and propose a “Rookie of the Year” award.
To be eligible, players must have started the season as teenagers (19 years old or younger on August 16, 2024) and be playing their first full season in the Premier League. Here, an analysis of the most outstanding candidates.
Players not included: Kobbie Mainoo, Lewis Hall, Rico Lewis, Jack Hinshelwood, and Facundo Buonanotte, as they are in their second or third season in the Premier League.
Mateus Fernandes and Yankuba Minteh, who turned 20 in July, also narrowly missed out. Both had good campaigns and would have been in the top 10 if they had been born a few weeks later.
Oliver Scarles, left back, West Ham United
Scarles took the opportunity on the left side due to Aaron Cresswell’s experience and Emerson’s inconsistency. With almost 600 minutes played, he stood out in several matches, including one against Arsenal, where he recorded four tackles and seven interceptions.
Patrick Dorgu, left back, Manchester United
Dorgu arrived from Lecce for 25 million pounds and, despite his inexperience, has shown promise. The Danish international has brought physical attributes that Manchester United lacked and has stood out in the UEFA Europa League.
Leny Yoro, central defender, Manchester United
Yoro, signed for 62 million euros from Lille, would have been higher on the list if it weren’t for an injury and, despite a foot fracture, has played almost 2,000 minutes. His ability to win duels, play out from the back and cover space has been remarkable, and United coach Ruben Amorim is confident in his potential.
Nico O’Reilly, Midfielder/Left Back, Manchester City
O’Reilly, a youth player, has had a significant impact, playing out of his usual position as a left-back. His balance, speed, and attacking drive have helped the team reach the FA Cup final and position themselves in the top five of the Premier League.
Archie Gray, defender/midfielder, Tottenham Hotspur
Gray, with experience at Leeds United, has played in three different positions (right-back, center-back, and midfielder) at Tottenham. Despite the challenges, he has shown great adaptability, although he has had some difficult matches.
Tyler Dibling, forward, Southampton
Dibling stood out at Southampton, despite the team’s relegation. He leads in meters gained by carrying the ball (7.8) and is second in carries of 10 meters or more (100). Although he could have had more goals, his performance is notable considering the team’s situation. Sources reported that Manchester United could sign him if they win the Europa League.
Ethan Nwaneri, midfielder/forward, Arsenal
Nwaneri, the youngest player to debut in the Premier League, has had a notable impact. With nine goals and two assists, he has demonstrated his ability, especially playing on the right wing. His resistance to pressure and aggressiveness could give him a role in midfield in the future.
Lucas Bergvall, midfielder, Tottenham Hotspur
Bergvall, with experience at Djurgården, joined Tottenham and earned the trust of coach Ange Postecoglou. His energy and precise passes have been key for the team, despite the difficulty of his first season in England.
Myles Lewis-Skelly, left-back, Arsenal
Lewis-Skelly has surprised by going from the margins of the team to being a regular starter at 18 years old. He has surpassed established players and has played more than 2,000 minutes as a left-back, including in important Champions League matches. His ability to perform on high-level stages is admirable.
Dean Huijsen, central defender, Bournemouth
Huijsen, on loan from Juventus to Bournemouth, has shown his potential. He adapted quickly and, after an injury, became a starter, showing his worth. He stands out for his ability to advance the ball from the back, and he is already a target of several important clubs.
