In a display of football’s ability to unite even the fiercest of rivals, Arsenal’s very own Bukayo Saka took home his second consecutive England Player of the Year award, with the accolade presented by Tottenham’s James Maddison.
The choice of presenter added a dose of irony to the ceremony, given the historic enmity between the two North London clubs.
- Bukayo Saka celebrates his 22nd birthday with his second England Player of the Year award.
- James Maddison of Tottenham presents the award, causing fans to reflect on the sportsmanship that transcends the Arsenal-Tottenham rivalry.
- Saka, now also the PFA Young Player of the Season, continues to affirm his standing as one of England’s most promising talents.
It was a night of dual delights for Bukayo Saka, who not only marked his 22nd birthday but also reaffirmed his status as one of England’s premier football talents.
Having distinguished himself in Gareth Southgate’s squad, Saka earned the cherished England Player of the Year award for the second time.
Saka’s remarkable impact for the Three Lions has been evident, as illustrated by his scoring record: seven goals in just 10 appearances. Three of those goals were instrumental at the World Cup, cementing his reputation as an English football star on the rise.
But the accolades didn’t stop at international recognition.
Saka has also been honoured with the PFA Young Player of the Season and secured his position in the Premier League Team of the Year, attesting to his contributions with both club and country.
The evening’s ‘ceremony’ threw in an unexpected variable: James Maddison of Tottenham standing as presenter.
Having recently transferred from Leicester City, Maddison has been impressive, netting two goals and two assists within his first quartet of games at Tottenham.
James Maddison presents Bukayo Saka with the England Men’s Player of the Year
— Gunners (@Gunnersc0m) September 5, 2023
Fan reaction was nothing short of hilarious.
Reactions ranged from bemusement to adoration, with many remarking on the “beautiful” paradox of a Spurs player handing over a prestigious award to an Arsenal jewel.