The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) has unveiled the finalists for the prestigious 2025 PFA Young Player of the Year award, with Alex Rogers, Ethan Nwaneri, and Liam Delap emerging as standout nominees in a competitive field.
The announcement, made early Thursday, highlights a trio of young stars who have dazzled in domestic and international competitions throughout the 2024/25 season.
Alex Rogers, the electrifying winger for Aston Villa, enjoyed a breakout Premier League campaign, recording 11 goals and 9 assists, and playing a key role in Villa’s top-four finish and Champions League qualification.
Ethan Nwaneri, still just 18, became a regular in Arsenal’s midfield and showed poise beyond his years, making 32 appearances across all competitions and notching up five goals and seven assists. His technical maturity and vision have drawn comparisons to club legend Cesc Fàbregas.
Meanwhile, Liam Delap, on loan at Brighton from Manchester City, proved his Premier League credentials with 14 league goals, making him the top-scoring under-21 player of the season. His physicality and eye for goal have earned him plaudits as a potential future England No. 9.
Other finalists for the award include Ben Doak (Liverpool), Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United), and James McAtee (Manchester City)—all of whom have made significant contributions to their clubs this season.
The PFA Young Player of the Year award, voted for by fellow professionals, celebrates the most impressive player aged 21 or under. Previous winners include Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, and Marcus Rashford.
The winner will be announced at the PFA Awards Gala set for July 29, 2025, in Manchester.