Australian Chelsea striker Sam Kerr (29) is joined by Spanish players Aitana Bonmati (25) from Barcelona and Olga Carmona (23) from Real Madrid as the nominees for UEFA’s 2022–23 women’s player of the year award, as announced by the European football’s governing body on Friday.
Bonmati and Carmona were both integral parts of the Spain team that clinched victory in the Women’s World Cup by defeating England 1-0 on Sunday.
Bonmati showcased an exceptional performance in the domestic arena with Barcelona, contributing to the club’s attainment of their fourth consecutive Spanish League title. Moreover, she played a pivotal role in securing victories in the Women’s Champions League and the Spanish Super Cup.
Carmona’s contributions were highlighted by her decisive goal in the Women’s World Cup final.
However, her achievements with Madrid were less successful, as the team finished as runners-up to Barcelona in the league and fell short of claiming any major trophies, coming in second place in the Copa de la Reina.
Forward Kerr’s remarkable performance saw her net 29 goals across various competitions in the previous season, propelling Chelsea to secure their fourth consecutive FA Women’s Super League title and Women’s FA Cup victory. Additionally, she steered Australia to the semi-finals of the Women’s World Cup.
UEFA also revealed the contenders for the Women’s Coach of the Year accolade. The final nominees include Barcelona’s Jonatan Giraldez (31), Spain’s Jorge Vilda (42), and England’s Sarina Wiegman (53).
The victors, including the women’s player and coach of the year, will be unveiled during the 2023–24 Champions League group stage draw event in Monaco on August 31st, simultaneously with the announcements for the men’s player and coach of the year.