Liverpool talisman Mohamed Salah has been named among six elite footballers shortlisted for the prestigious Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Men’s Player of the Year award, the list of nominees announced on Friday confirmed.
Salah, who recently turned 33, played an instrumental role in Liverpool’s successful Premier League title run last season, finishing the campaign with an impressive 29 goals and 18 assists. His performances not only fueled the Merseyside club’s domestic dominance but also earned him widespread acclaim from fans and football analysts alike.
The Egyptian forward already secured the Football Writers’ Association’s Footballer of the Year accolade earlier in the year, garnering nearly 90 percent of the votes. That figure represents the largest winning margin for the award in over two decades, making him the overwhelming favourite to also claim the PFA prize next month.
Joining Salah on the PFA shortlist is his Liverpool teammate Alexis Mac Allister, who impressed in his debut season for the Reds with his dynamic presence in midfield.
Arsenal’s Declan Rice, another standout performer, also made the cut after producing arguably the most complete season of his career to date. Rice registered nine goals and 10 assists in 52 appearances across all competitions, anchoring the Gunners’ midfield with poise and precision.
Chelsea’s Cole Palmer was also nominated, despite enduring a difficult season at Stamford Bridge. While his inclusion may raise eyebrows, his recognition appears to be built more on potential and flashes of brilliance than consistent impact.
Another noteworthy nominee is Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak. The Swedish international was vital to Newcastle’s campaign, netting 23 times and helping the club clinch Champions League qualification. Isak also played a pivotal role in Newcastle’s historic League Cup triumph, ending the club’s 56-year trophy drought.
Completing the list is Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes. The Portuguese playmaker was a rare highlight in what was otherwise a bleak league season for the Red Devils, their worst since the 1973-74 campaign. Fernandes recorded eight league goals and provided 10 assists, continuing to serve as a creative force in midfield.
Despite fierce competition, Salah’s dominance throughout the season makes him the frontrunner heading into the ceremony, which will take place in Manchester on August 19.
What You Should Know
- Salah’s Dominance: Mohamed Salah’s 29 goals and 18 assists in Liverpool’s title-winning 2024-25 season make him the favorite for the PFA Men’s Player of the Year award.
- Nominees: The shortlist includes Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool), Declan Rice (Arsenal), Cole Palmer (Chelsea), Alexander Isak (Newcastle), and Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United).
- Surprise Inclusion: Cole Palmer’s nomination is notable given his struggles at Chelsea, despite his prior Young Player award.
- Key Stats: Rice scored nine goals with 10 assists, Isak netted 23 goals, and Fernandes contributed eight goals and 10 assists in a tough season for United.
- Awards Context: Salah’s near-90% vote share for the Football Writers’ award marks a historic margin, boosting his PFA candidacy.
- Event Details: The PFA awards will take place in Manchester on August 19, 2025.
