The incredible 2023/24 season has come to a thrilling end, culminating in a spectacular Real Madrid victory over Dortmund in the Champions League final yesterday. This season has been nothing short of extraordinary, marked by record-breaking moments, breakthrough talents, and unforgettable matches.
From the most goals ever scored in a Premier League season to the nail-biting excitement of the Champions League quarterfinals, fans have been treated to a feast of footballing excellence. The year has seen emerging stars make their mark, seasoned veterans showcase their brilliance, and unexpected twists that kept everyone on the edge of their seats.
As we look back on this remarkable season, 365Scores is proud to present its yearly awards, recognizing the standout performers and moments that defined 2023/24. Categories such as Player of the Year, Team of the Year, Coach of the Year, and Goal of the Year highlight the exceptional talent and unforgettable feats that graced the pitch. Additionally, awards for Breakthrough Talent of the Year and Surprise of the Year celebrate the fresh faces and unforeseen stories that added to the season’s drama.
Join us as we honor the best of the best and reflect on a season that will be remembered for years to come.
The Awards
2023/24 Player of the Year – Jude Bellingham
Jude Bellingham has taken the football world by storm, earning the prestigious Player of the Year title for the 2023/24 season. At just 20 years old, Bellingham’s performances have been nothing short of extraordinary. Dominating games from midfield, he finished third in the La Liga top scorer charts, a remarkable feat for a player in his position. His influence on the pitch has made him the go-to guy for Real Madrid, consistently delivering in crucial moments.
Bellingham’s season reached a pinnacle with a pivotal assist to the Robin of his Batman, Vinicius Jr., in the Champions League final, securing the title for Real Madrid. His blend of technical skill, vision, and leadership has won him admiration from fans and pundits alike, solidifying his status as one of the brightest talents in football today. Everyone loves Bellingham, and his meteoric rise shows no signs of slowing down.
2023/24 Team of the Year – Bayer Leverkusen
Bayer Leverkusen has earned the Team of the Year accolade for their incredible 2023/24 season. They made history by winning the Bundesliga without losing a single game, the first team to ever achieve this feat in Germany. Extending their unbeaten run to an astonishing 51 games, Leverkusen set the record for the longest streak in European football.
Their journey was marked by dramatic comebacks and last-minute goals, with ELEVEN crucial last-minute strikes either securing victories or salvaging draws. This resilience and never-say-die attitude captured the hearts of football fans worldwide. Leverkusen’s slick, attacking football, featuring standout performances from players like Florian Wirtz and Álex Grimaldo, showcased their talent and tactical prowess.
Despite a narrow defeat in the Europa League final, they finished the season on a high by winning the DFB Pokal, cementing their place in football history. Bayer Leverkusen’s remarkable unbeaten run and captivating style of play have rightfully earned them the title of Team of the Year.
Unstoppable Werkself! 🔥🔥
— 365Scores (@365Scores) May 25, 2024
Leverkusen cap off a sensational season with a DFB Pokal win, completing the Bundesliga & Cup DOUBLE! 🏆🏆 pic.twitter.com/OpvtT7Bvlf
Coach of the Year – Carlo Ancelotti
Affectionately known as “Don Carlo,” Ancelotti has further cemented his legendary status by guiding Real Madrid to yet another Champions League triumph, his fifth in an illustrious career. This remarkable achievement, coupled with his second league-Champions League double with Los Blancos in three years, places him firmly in the GOAT debates.
Ancelotti’s storied career spans three decades, during which he has demonstrated an exceptional ability to adapt and thrive in various footballing cultures and leagues. From his early days at Reggiana to his successes with AC Milan, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, and now Real Madrid, his tactical acumen, calm demeanor, and ability to manage superstar egos have set him apart as a managerial maestro.
This season, Ancelotti’s Real Madrid not only dominated La Liga but also showcased their European pedigree with a series of masterclass performances in the Champions League. His ability to blend experienced campaigners with emerging talents has been pivotal, creating a team that is both resilient and exhilarating to watch.
Goal of the Year – Alejandro Garnacho (vs. Everton)
Alejandro Garnacho’s goal was a complete work of art.
At a buoyant Goodison Park, Manchester United would have to do something special to silence the atmosphere of the animated crowd, noisier than ever out of protest for their ten-point deduction. That something special came in the third minute thanks to Garnacho.
Victor Lindelof sprayed a sublime crossfield pass to Marcus Rashford on the right-wing who slipped the ball down the line to overlapping Diogo Dalot. The Portuguese right-back looked up once and whipped in a slightly lopsided cross towards the box. The ball was set to land two meters behind the onrushing Garnacho who decided to improvise.
The Argentinian ran backwards and, on almost the edge of the area, leaped into the air with a bicycle motion and the poise of a ballerina. His right foot kissed the speeding, spinning ball and it flew into the far corner, past a helpless Jordan Pickford. The animated Everton fans were silenced, if not awestruck. The Manchester United fans became rapturous. Garnacho, almost surprised himself, emulated his idol Cristiano Ronaldo’s trademark ‘SIU’ celebration and let the crowd appreciate his magic.
WHAT A GOAL 🔥
— 365Scores (@365Scores) November 26, 2023
Garnacho scores a Rooney-esque goal against Everton in the 2nd minute of the game 🤯
Will he become a United legend with this form? 👀#Garnacho #United #Everton #PremierLeague #365Scores pic.twitter.com/11qlb2JDC8
Breakthrough Talent of the Year – Lamine Yamal
Lamine Yamal has been nothing short of sensational, earning the Breakthrough Talent of the Year award for his extraordinary performances with Barcelona. At just 16 years old, Yamal has achieved the incredible feat of winning the La Liga U23 Player of the Year, despite being closer to 11 years old than 23. His debut season saw him contribute 10 goal involvements in La Liga, a remarkable achievement for such a young player.
Yamal’s dazzling skills, maturity beyond his years, and ability to make a significant impact in crucial moments have made him a standout performer. His performances have not only captivated Barcelona fans but also earned him a likely spot in the Spanish squad for the upcoming Euros. The future looks exceptionally bright for Lamine Yamal, who has firmly established himself as one of the most exciting young talents in world football.
According to Goal, these are the best wonderkids in the world 👶
— 365Scores (@365Scores) March 19, 2024
What do you think?#Yamal #NxGN2024 #NxGN #365scores pic.twitter.com/81FE5lDXEo
Surprise of the Year – Harry Kane still not winning a trophy…
The football world was once again left in disbelief as Harry Kane, one of the game’s most prolific strikers, ended another season without a trophy, despite having joined Bayern Munich. Bayern had won every league title since 2012 so it seemed inevitable, yet Leverkusen stormed the league and did the domestic double.
Despite his consistent goal-scoring prowess and invaluable contributions to his team, silverware continues to elude the England captain. This season’s surprise highlights the unpredictable nature of football and Kane’s ongoing quest for that elusive first major trophy. Could Euro 2024 be his chance?
Biggest Disappointment – Napoli
Napoli’s 2023/24 season has been a tale of unfulfilled potential and remarkable decline, earning them the unfortunate title of Biggest Disappointment. After the heights of last season, where they clinched the Serie A title, their fall-off this year has been astonishing. From finishing first, Napoli plummeted to a disappointing 10th place in the league.
Key players like Victor Osimhen and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who were instrumental in their previous success, saw their impact significantly limited this season. Injuries and inconsistency plagued their campaigns, contributing to Napoli’s inability to find form and deliver results. Despite the talent within their squad, the team struggled to replicate their past performances and failed to compete effectively in both domestic and European competitions.
Read our Complete Guide to the Copa America here.
By Nicky Helfgott / @NickyH3lfgott on Twitter (X)
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