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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Jamie Gardner

Arsenal trio make shortlist for PFA Men’s Player of the Year award

Declan Rice and Arsenal teammates David Raya and Gabriel have been shortlisted for PFA Player of the Year - (Reuters)

Three key players from Arsenal's winning Premier League campaign – Declan Rice, Gabriel, and David Raya – have been nominated for the prestigious Professional Footballers’ Association’s Men’s Player of the Year award.

The trio were instrumental in the Gunners' title challenge with midfielder Rice lauded for his tireless efforts and crucial set-piece deliveries, goalkeeper Raya securing the Premier League's Golden Glove, contributing to Arsenal's 19 clean sheets, in a feat matched by the defensive solidity and set-piece threat from Brazilian centre-back Gabriel.

They are joined by Manchester City's prolific striker Erling Haaland, who led the league with 27 goals, and the mercurial Rayan Cherki, a revelation for the Blues since his arrival last summer.

Manchester United's playmaker Bruno Fernandes has also been nominated and recognised for his vital role in the club's resurgence, providing a record breaking 21 assists to help secure a Champions League return.

Declan Rice has been nominated for the PFA Men's Player of the Year award alongside Arsenal teammates David Raye and Gabriel (Getty)
Declan Rice has been nominated for the PFA Men's Player of the Year award alongside Arsenal teammates David Raye and Gabriel (Getty)

The Women's Player of the Year award shortlist also highlights top talent, with Manchester City's Women's Super League title success reflected in the nominations of Yui Hasegawa and Bunny Shaw.

Jamaican forward Shaw was a formidable force, netting 21 goals as City clinched both the WSL crown and the FA Cup. Japan international Hasegawa proved a pivotal presence in their midfield.

Arsenal and England striker Alessia Russo, who finished just behind Shaw in the scoring charts with 13 goals, was also shortlisted.

Completing the six-player list are Aston Villa's Kirsty Hanson, who scored 12 goals, alongside England internationals Lauren James of Chelsea and Jess Park from Manchester United.

The winners of the men’s and winners PFA Player of the Year awards will be announced at the annual ceremony which is being held at Manchester Opera House on Tuesday 25 August. Also awarded during the ceremony will be the Young Player of the Year for the rest of the EFL, including the Premier League as well as the WSL and WSL2.

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