Man City and Arsenal Dominate Premier League Team of 2023
As the year 2023 comes to a close, the Premier League has witnessed extraordinary achievements and outstanding performances. With Manchester City clinching a Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup treble and Erling Haaland rewriting history with 52 goals in his debut season, the spotlight has shone brightly on remarkable players and teams. Let’s delve into the notable names that have earned a spot in the Premier League Team of the Year for 2023.
Goalkeeper: Emiliano MartÃnez, Aston Villa
A formidable presence in Unai Emery’s Aston Villa, MartÃnez’s leadership and anticipation have been instrumental in the team’s defensive success. His role in Argentina’s World Cup triumph in 2022 has undoubtedly contributed to his powerful performance for Villa.
Defender: Kyle Walker, Manchester City
Despite the summer speculation, Walker’s pivotal role in Manchester City’s Treble success last season secured him a well-deserved three-year contract. The experienced England fullback’s strength and pace make him a standout performer.
Premier League Defender: William Saliba, Arsenal
Saliba’s impactful contributions were evident as Arsenal led the Premier League before his season-ending back injury. His return this season has seen him emerge as the outstanding defender, playing a crucial role in Arsenal’s title contention.
Premier League Defender: Ezri Konsa, Aston Villa
An ever-present force for Villa in 2023, Konsa’s stellar performances earned him a call-up to the England squad. Forming a solid defensive axis, Konsa played a pivotal role in Villa’s surprising title challenge.
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Defender: Dan Burn, Newcastle United
Standing out in a challenging year for left-backs, Burn’s success at Newcastle showcases manager Eddie Howe’s ability to extract significant improvements from players. Burn’s contributions include playing in the Carabao Cup final and the Champions League.
Midfielder: Rodri, Manchester City
Arguably the most crucial player in the Premier League, Rodri’s absence has been felt by Manchester City, leading to losses in games where he was suspended. His exceptional 2022-23 campaign culminated in scoring the winning goal in the Champions League final against Inter Milan.
Midfielder: Declan Rice, Arsenal
A talismanic figure for West Ham before making a £105 million move to Arsenal, Rice’s leadership, goals, and all-around midfield prowess have elevated Arsenal’s performance, culminating in Europa Conference League glory.
Premier League Midfielder: Martin Odegaard, Arsenal
Maturing into the midfield creator that Real Madrid envisioned, Odegaard has been a key player for Arsenal. His goals and creativity have been crucial, and he continues to make significant contributions alongside summer signing Rice.
Forward: Mohamed Salah, Liverpool
Despite a challenging season for Liverpool, Salah’s substantial contributions include 28 goals and 17 assists in 2023 alone. The rejection of a £150 million offer highlights Liverpool’s commitment to retaining the prolific forward.
Premier League Forward: Erling Haaland, Manchester City
Haaland’s debut season at Manchester City saw him score an astonishing 52 goals, including 44 in 2023. Winning a treble and breaking numerous goalscoring records, Haaland has solidified his status as a global superstar.
Forward: Son Heung-Min, Tottenham Hotspur
Stepping up in the absence of Harry Kane, Son Heung-Min’s performances for Tottenham have been stellar. Contributing 10 goals and four assists ahead of the Christmas fixtures, Son has been pivotal in Spurs’ title race.
The Premier League Team of 2023 reflects the outstanding achievements and contributions of players who have left an indelible mark on English football throughout the year.
Source: ESPN
