Arsenal wonderkid to battle Manchester United star and England hopeful for PFA Young Player of the Year award | OneFootball

Max Dowman facing stiff competition for prestigious award

Max Dowman has been shortlisted for the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Young Player of the Year award after his breakout Arsenal campaign.

He made six Premier League appearances, starting once, and was also handed opportunities in the League Cup and Champions League.

Max Dowman is the youngest-ever Premier League Champion

PA

He faces stiff competition if he is to win the award, though. Joining him on the shortlist are Rayan Cherki and Nico O’Reilly, who won a cup double with Manchester City.

The latter’s performances saw him earn a call-up to England’s World Cup squad, where he is expected to serve as Thomas Tuchel’s first-choice left-back.

Cherki, meanwhile, has also been shortlisted for Men’s Player of the Season.

Shotlist: Rayan Cherki and Nico O’Reilly

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Kobbie Mainoo is also shortlisted after shining under Michael Carrick throughout the second half of the season.

He could not get a look in under Ruben Amorim, but proved an important player as the Red Devils cruised through the run-in and confirmed their return to the Champions League.

Eli Junior Kroupi’s superb breakout campaign sees him nominated, further bolstering his profile as various clubs weigh up moves to sign him.

Completing the list is Liverpool starlet Rio Ngumoha, who took advantage of Mohamed Salah’s dip in form to become a regular in the latter days of Arne Slot’s tenure.

The winner will be announced at a glitzy awards ceremony in Manchester on August 25, 2026.