Manchester City striker Erling Haaland and Spain’s World Cup-winning star Aitana Bonmati won the UEFA Men’s and Women’s Player of the Year award at a ceremony in Monaco on Thursday.
The prolific goal-scoring abilities of Haaland, a forward from Norway, were instrumental in City’s triumphant achievement of securing victories in the Champions League, Premier League, and FA Cup. Haaland’s remarkable record of 52 goals in 53 games significantly contributed to City’s success. Similarly, Bonmati, a player from Spain, played a pivotal role in inspiring her national team to emerge victorious in the recent World Cup.
Erling Haaland’s notable accomplishments during his initial season at Manchester City subsequent to his transfer from Borussia Dortmund resulted in his attainment of the men’s award. This accolade placed him in competition with esteemed individuals such as his club teammate Kevin De Bruyne and Lionel Messi.
Lionel Messi was affiliated with Paris Saint-Germain during the previous season, but subsequently departed to join Inter Miami in the Major League Soccer.
“I am kind of living a dream. This was my dream when I was young, so to be able to do this together with my teammates is something special,” Haaland, 23, said after collecting his award.
A very, very proud moment for me 💙 THANK YOU! 🏆 @UEFA @ChampionsLeague #UEFAawards pic.twitter.com/eT2gt6enQ2
— Erling Haaland (@ErlingHaaland) August 31, 2023
Bonmati, a 25-year-old athlete, played a prominent role in Barcelona’s victory in the Women’s Champions League during the previous season. Additionally, she was recognised as the player of the tournament for her contributions to Spain’s successful World Cup campaign in Australia and New Zealand.
The recipient of the UEFA prize was able to surpass her Spain teammate Olga Carmona, who scored the decisive goal in the World Cup final against England, as well as Chelsea and Australia striker Sam Kerr.
“It was a season I will never forget,” Bonmati said.
Proud and honored to receive this award. Thanks to all my teammates and everybody who has been part of an extraordinary season 🫶🏻 https://t.co/HlkCBzb2z2
— Aitana Bonmatí Conca (@AitanaBonmati) August 31, 2023
The women’s coach of the year prize was awarded to England manager Sarina Wiegman, leaving Spain coach Jorge Vilda without the accolade.
Pep Guardiola was awarded the prestigious title of Men’s Coach of the Year following his remarkable leadership of City, resulting in the team’s triumphant achievement of the treble.
Photo by EPA/GUILLAUME HORCAJUELO
