There are a number of players who have not been nominated and can feel aggrieved after missing out on the eight-man shortlist. This includes players like Bukayo Saka and Rodri. Some players, like Ollie Watkins and Anthony Gordon, have produced double figures for goals and assists this term. In contrast, some players like Salah have previously won the award twice, with the most recent coming during the 2021/22 season.

For instance, the Brazilian has started in 32 of their last 33 league matches, scoring four important goals. He is part of an Arsenal team that has conceded just 28 goals in the Premier League, with the Gunners keeping a league-high 17 clean sheets thus far. City have lost the three games Rodri has not featured in this season due to suspension and his impact is pivotal. Rodri, on the other hand, has not been nominated for the Player of the Year prize, despite accumulating the most accurate passes, most final third entries, and chipping in with seven goals and nine assists.

The defensive midfielder has had an impressive season. Another player left out of the nominations is the 22-year-old, who needs one more goal contribution during the final two league matches to beat last season’s tally. He is Arsenal’s top scorer and has helped in their push for the Premier League title. Additionally, the 27-year-old, who was nominated for the award last season, has been left out this time with Odegaard and Rice the two Gunners representatives on the shortlist.

Solanke is another player who was not nominated, despite an impressive performance this season. He is hoping to be chosen for the England squad this summer after notching 16 goals and six assists in 33 league appearances. Elsewhere, the 27-year-old Bowen has performed well in league matches this season, even when playing at centre forward. His recent performance in the 2-2 draw against Liverpool showcased his capabilities, as he contributed a goal and an assist.