The inclusion of Paul Pogba in the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Team of the Year has sparked much controversy in the footballing world – whether rightfully or wrongfully so, is open for debate.
The Manchester United superstar was the only none Liverpool and/or Manchester City player who was named in the team deservedly dominated by this season’s Premier League pace setters, City and Liverpool.
Having said the above – let’s take a look at the 2018-2019 starting XI – who are voted for by players.
GK: Ederson (Man City)
It’s a toss-up really between the Man City shot-stopper and Liverpool’s number one Alisson Becker, but with form the number one criteria for selection the City man probably edges it with the Liverpool goalminder definitely on the bench.
LB: Andrew Robertson (Liverpool)
Nothing much to be said here, like his Reds teammate Trent Alexander-Arnold, Robertson has not only risen to new heights in the Premier League, but in world football.
CB: Aymeric Laporte (Man City)
Attack wins games, defence wins titles. The French centre back has been immense in the City backline – and with a lethal attacking game led by one Sergio Aguero it’s no surprise that City are closing in on a second successive league title.
CB: Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)
He’s arguably the best in the world at what he does, enough said.
RB: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)
Only 20 years of age – the fullback has been as effective on defence as he’s been on offence throughout the campaign with his perfectly weighted crosses and timely runs – perfect for Jurgen Klopp’s men’s high tempo game.
CM: Paul Pogba (Manchester United)
If Pogba was not a five-star midfielder, this inclusion would’ve been shocking rather than surprising. His selection has been rather surprising considering his inconsistent form and wrong attitude towards his game – which has more often than not overshadowed his footballing gift. His talent and class, however, is there for all to see and if he remains at United, and it’s a big if, then maybe, just maybe, he’ll justify his controversial selection.
CM: Fernandinho (Man City)
The holding midfield birth normally goes unnoticed for various reasons until you watch teams that lack in the department. The Brazilian is one of the key reasons City’s backline has had the blessing of the best security.
CM: Bernado Silva (Man City)
The versatile midfielder has kept David Silva and Leroy Sane on the bench at different times, operating both centrally and on the wing. In a star-studded City outfit, he’s been one of the outstanding stars in City’s quest to retain their crown. A spot in the PFA Team of the Year comes as little surprise.
LF: Sadio Mane (Liverpool)
The Senegalese forward has replaced Mohamed Salah as Liverpool’s top marksman – Mane has shown the kind of form that has triggered links to Real Madrid, famous for only recruiting super stars – a fitting title for a player who’s earned it.
CF: Sergio ‘Kun’ Aguero (Man City)
Lethal, ruthless, dangerous and intimidating are the sort of words one can use to describe Aguero when he’s facing a goal. He’s simply the best Premier League player since Cristiano Ronaldo.
RF: Raheem Sterling (Man City)
A strong contender for the Player of the Season accolade, Sterling has matured from a hesitant scorer to one of the most prolific finishers in the league. His name was probably one of the first on this year’s team. – @SabeloBoksburg
