With every passing year, the Premier League brings more exciting young prospects to the attention of the footballing world, which often leads to debate over who should be crowned as the best in the Under-23 category.
The competition to claim the prize has never been higher with several youngsters cementing their status as first-team regulars and producing important performances for their respective clubs in the process.
It’s an accolade that’s held in high regard with the likes of Wayne Rooney, Cristiano Ronaldo, Harry Kane and Steven Gerrard previously winning it on their way to the top.
Last year, Liverpool’s Trent Alexander Arnold joined that prestigious list, as he contributed 13 assists from right-back during the Merseyside club’s first title win in 30 years.
So who are the five frontrunners for the 2020/21 PFA Young Player of the Year?
Harvey Barnes (Leicester City)
Coming into the season there were question marks about whether the Englishman can take his game to the next level, especially in terms of end product. However, Barnes proved most wrong and has been in scintillating form this campaign, scoring nine goals and assisting another four in 25 league appearances.
Many aspects of his game have improved under Brendan Rodgers since his arrival, but most importantly is his movement and close-control. As a result, the 23-year-old has found himself receiving the ball in much more dangerous positions compared to previous seasons, hence why he’s been able to contribute by getting on the scoresheet more regularly.
If it wasn’t for an unfortunate injury against Arsenal in February, Barnes would have not only improved upon his tally, but also been in contention for Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the European Championships this summer. There’s no doubt that he will be back stronger in time for next campaign to help the Foxes with their European venture.
Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
Ever since Saka burst onto the scene for Arsenal’s first-team last season, he’s become a vital asset under three different managers and systems. On numerous occasions the teenager has shown his versatility, having been deployed at left back, centre midfield, left wing and right wing throughout the course of the last 18 months.
Despite not being given the continuity to perform in his preferred position, Saka has been the shining light in an otherwise difficult season for the Gunners, having scored five times as well as providing three assists in 31 league games.
The 19-year-old was recently named Young Player of the Year in the London Football Awards, beating the likes of Mason Mount and fellow team-mate Emile Smith Rowe, to round off a stellar campaign on a personal level. Saka will be hopeful of swopping another accolade and being included in England’s final 26-man squad this summer to showcase his talents on the international stage.
Phil Foden (Manchester City)
Much like the other candidates thus far, Foden is another homegrown academy product. Pep Guardiola’s handling of the youngster hasn’t always been popular among the fans, as when David Silva left the club in 2019 the expectation was for Foden to slot into his role, however the decision to give the then teenager more time looks to have been the correct decision.
Now aged 20 he’s one of the first names on the teamsheet and capable of playing anywhere across the midfield, due to his immense technical ability and passing range. With nine goals and five assists in just 28 league appearances this season, it’s clear to see why he’s so highly-rated, and one of the favourites for the Young Player of the Year award.
The Stockport-born midfielder will look to continue his fine form into the European Championship this summer with England and prove that he’s got the ability to perform on one of the biggest stages in world football.
Ruben Dias (Manchester City)
Expectations were high for Dias when he arrived in Manchester due to his £64.3million price tag and many thought he might struggle to adapt to the league considering his inexperience. However, the Portuguese international proved worthy of his fee, playing a major role in City’s title win while also helping John Stones to flourish alongside him.
In the past, Guardiola’s side have always struggled at the back often leaking too many goals, and relying on their attacking talent to bail them out. Although, since the 24-year-old’s acquisition they kept 15 clean sheets in his 32 appearances and conceded the fewest goals in the league with 32.
The fact he was able to hit the ground running was imperative to their success this season, especially as Guardiola opted to play without a striker for large parts, therefore it was vital for them to have a solid base in order for this style to be effective.
Dias was recently named FWA Footballer of the Year having picked up more votes than Harry Kane and team-mate Kevin De Bruyne in recognition of his immense impact during his first season in England. The defender will certainly be in contention for the Young Player of the Year as well, having started the campaign aged 23.
Mason Mount (Chelsea)
One positive that came from Chelsea’s transfer ban back in 2019, was that the club had to rely on youth for once, and this turned out to be a blessing with the development of Mount. The attacking midfielder cemented his place in the starting eleven under Frank Lampard, showcasing his technical ability but just as importantly, his willingness to work hard off the ball.
Despite Chelsea going back to their old habits of spending big on attacking talent such as Kai Havertz, Timo Werner and Hakim Ziyech, Mount has often been the one whose stepped up in the vital moments this season. In doing so, not only has he given hope to other young prospects in the Blues academy but proving that this approach in the transfer market isn’t always the way forward.
When Thomas Tuchel took over at the start of the year, doubt surrounding his role in the team came under question again, however the 22-year-old quickly put that to bed with some performances way beyond his years. Mount has six goals and five assists in 36 league appearances and played a crucial part in Chelsea’s run to the Champions League final, putting him in firm contention to pick up this award.
The level of performance from the youngsters in the Premier League this season has been astounding, but which player do you believe should win the PFA Young Player of the Year award?
