Crazy Time: Mohamed Salah has claimed this year’s Football Writers’ Association (FWA) Footballer of the Year award, a prestigious honor presented annually to the player judged as the best performer in English football.
The FWA award, introduced in the 1947–48 season, recognizes exceptional talent and contributions on the pitch. The inaugural recipient was Stanley Matthews, the legendary Blackpool winger. As of the 2024–25 season, Salah, representing Liverpool, has been named the winner, further solidifying his legacy.
Salah has now secured the award three times, a record he shares with Thierry Henry. These two football icons are the most decorated in the award’s history among the nine players who have won it multiple times.
The winner of the prestigious Football Writers’ Association (FWA) Award is determined by votes from approximately 400 football journalists who are members of the FWA. This association, one of the oldest in the football world, was co-founded by Charles Buchan, a former professional player who later became a journalist. Buchan is credited with suggesting the creation of this award to recognize outstanding individual performances in English football.
Since its inception, the award has been presented annually, and by 2025, it has been given 77 times to 68 different players. In one season, the honor was shared between two players, highlighting the exceptional talent of that particular year. Over the decades, the FWA Footballer of the Year award has become a coveted accolade, often reflecting the highest levels of achievement in the sport.
The votes cast by journalists ensure that the award remains a highly respected recognition, chosen by those who have the best insight into the game’s top performers. This award continues to celebrate the contributions of individual players, showcasing the incredible talent and dedication present in English football each season.
FWA 2024-25 Awards: List of All Winners
| Award | Winner |
|---|---|
| FWA Footballer of the Year | Mohamed Salah |
| FWA Women’s Footballer of the Year | Alessia Russo |
Crazy Time: FWA Footballer of the Year 2024-25 (Top Four)
| Rank | Player |
|---|---|
| 1 | Mohamed Salah |
| 2 | Virgil van Dijk |
| 3 | Alexander Isak |
| 4 | Declan Rice |
Crazy Time: FWA Women’s Footballer of the Year 2024-25 (Top Four)
| Rank | Player |
|---|---|
| 1 | Alessia Russo |
| 2 | Khadija Shaw |
| 3 | Mariona Caldentey |
| 4 | Millie Bright |
Alessia Russo is the second Arsenal player to receive this honor, following Vivianne Miedema in 2020. The fact that 36 different players received votes highlights the strong interest in women’s football among FWA members.
Alessia Russo has been in sensational form during her second season with Arsenal, continuing to impress as one of the top players in the Women’s Super League (WSL). Under the guidance of new manager Renee Slegers, Russo has taken her game to another level, showcasing both her skill and consistency on the field. As an England international, she has proven to be a key player for the Gunners, making a significant impact in almost every match she’s played.
One of Russo’s standout achievements this season has been her remarkable goal-scoring record. With 12 goals in just 20 WSL appearances, she is currently on course to share the prestigious Golden Boot with Manchester City’s Khadija “Bunny” Shaw, who has also been in excellent form. Russo’s ability to find the back of the net with such consistency has made her one of the most dangerous forwards in the league, and she continues to be a driving force for Arsenal in their pursuit of the title.
Crazy Time: The excitement around Russo’s potential Golden Boot triumph is heightened by the Gunners’ final WSL match of the season. Arsenal will face off against Russo’s former team, Manchester United, in a crucial match that will determine second place in the standings. With so much at stake, Russo could seal her place as the top scorer of the season in what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the campaign. The stage is set for Russo to cap off a standout season with the ultimate individual honor, making it a moment to remember for both her and Arsenal fans alike.
