Premier League Awards (Part 2): Best Goal, Best Youngster and Best Value Signing
The Premier League 2024-25 campaign delivered a rich tapestry of unforgettable moments, emerging stars, and transformative signings. Among these, three highlights captivated fans and pundits alike: Kaoru Mitoma’s majestic Goal of the Season, Dean Huijsen’s emergence as Rookie of the Year, and Nikola Milenkovic’s exceptional value-for-money signing.
Here, we explore these standout contributions that left a lasting imprint on a thrilling Premier League season.
Goal of the Season: Kaoru Mitoma (Brighton 3-0 Chelsea, 14 February)
Valentine’s Day at the Amex Stadium saw Brighton produce a dominant performance against Chelsea, winning 3-0. But beyond the scoreline, it was Kaoru Mitoma’s sublime solo goal that captured hearts and imagination.
Mitoma’s PHENOMENAL TOUCH And Goal 😱😳😱😳 #brightonandhovealbion #kaorumitoma #chelsea – YouTube
The moment unfolded in the 26th minute. Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen launched a long ball forward, spotting Mitoma caught between Chelsea defenders Trevoh Chalobah and Malo Gusto. As the ball dropped over his shoulder, Mitoma timed his run perfectly. In a flash of brilliance, he controlled the ball with an exquisite first touch using his right foot.
That alone was difficult enough, but Mitoma’s artistry had just begun. With Chalobah closing in, the Japanese winger calmly guided the ball to his right and surged toward the middle of the pitch. With three quick touches, he reached the edge of the penalty area and, with surgical precision, slotted the ball into the bottom-right corner past Filip Jørgensen.
The Amex erupted. It wasn’t just a goal – it was a moment of footballing poetry. Mitoma’s balance, control, and vision elevated the strike into a work of art. It was a goal that demanded multiple viewings to appreciate its finesse and intricacy fully.
In a season filled with spectacular finishes, this effort stood out not only for its technical brilliance but also for its spontaneity and execution under pressure. There were no rehearsed moves or static play patterns – just pure instinct and skill.
Mitoma’s wonder goal deserves the accolade for Goal of the Season because it epitomises the creative and expressive side of football. Each element – from anticipation to execution – was perfectly aligned, resulting in a goal that Brighton fans, and neutrals alike, will remember for years.
Rookie of the Season: Dean Huijsen, Bournemouth
Dean Huijsen’s journey in the Premier League this season has been nothing short of remarkable. The 20-year-old centre-back, on loan from Juventus, made an indelible mark during his time at Bournemouth, earning him the Rookie of the Year honour.
Huijsen’s performances have been instrumental in Bournemouth recording their highest points tally in a Premier League season. For a player with just one season under his belt, his maturity, composure, and intelligence on the pitch stood out consistently.
The stats speak volumes. Among players with at least 1,000 minutes played, Huijsen ranked second in clearances, third in interceptions, and fourth in both headed clearances and long balls. Such numbers highlight a player who reads the game with clarity and defends with assurance.
Despite his towering 6-foot-6 frame, Huijsen’s game is not solely defined by physicality. His understanding of positioning and timing is exceptional. He often defuses dangerous situations before they escalate, reflecting the philosophy of legendary defenders like Paolo Maldini, who once said, “If I have to make a tackle, then I have already made a mistake.”
Huijsen’s tactical awareness and ability to anticipate danger made him a cornerstone of Bournemouth’s back line. Moreover, his contributions were not limited to defence. He scored three goals in the Premier League, all of which contributed to victories – a valuable asset in tight matches.
Off the pitch, Huijsen’s profile rose sharply. His form attracted Real Madrid, who moved quickly to activate his £50 million release clause and confirmed his signing on 1 June. The move illustrates the magnitude of his impact and his status as one of Europe’s brightest defensive prospects.
Huijsen also made his senior debut for Spain in March, facing the Netherlands in the Nations League. It was a symbolic moment for a player born in the Netherlands but raised in Spain from the age of five. Unsurprisingly, his defensive idol is Sergio Ramos, a legend known for elite one-on-one defending – a trait Huijsen has shown in abundance.
Under manager Andoni Iraola, Bournemouth employed a high-octane style of football. The team’s ability to press and transition relied heavily on having a reliable defensive base. Huijsen’s presence allowed Iraola to execute his tactics confidently, knowing the defence was in safe hands.
For Bournemouth, Huijsen has been a revelation. For the Premier League, he’s the embodiment of the new generation of intelligent defenders.
Best Signing/Bang for Buck: Nikola Milenkovic, Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest were one of the feel-good stories of the 2024-25 campaign. Their return to European football, and a possible spot in the Champions League, marked a significant achievement for Nuno Espírito Santo’s side. A key component of this success was their astute summer signing: Nikola Milenkovic.
Acquired from Fiorentina for approximately £11.8 million, Milenkovic was the solution to several defensive issues that had plagued Forest in previous seasons. In many ways, he was the missing puzzle piece that transformed Forest from a leaky outfit to a disciplined defensive unit.
Before his arrival, Forest struggled with conceding goals from distance and set pieces, and lacked a commanding presence alongside Murillo, their ball-playing centre-back. Milenkovic brought exactly what they needed: aerial dominance, composure under pressure, and defensive authority.
In the 2023-24 season, Milenkovic ranked second across all of Europe in aerial duels won, trailing only Virgil van Dijk. This dominance in the air had a ripple effect across Forest’s defensive performances. They significantly reduced their vulnerability from set pieces and crosses, turning one of their biggest weaknesses into a strength.
The Serbian international also brought leadership and tactical discipline. He complemented Murillo’s style perfectly, allowing the Brazilian to focus on his distribution while Milenkovic handled the more physical battles.
What makes Milenkovic’s impact even more significant is the context of his price tag. In a market where defenders often command eye-watering fees, Forest’s acquisition of Milenkovic for £11.8 million was a masterstroke. He delivered elite-level performances at a fraction of the cost associated with many top-tier defenders.
His influence extended beyond defensive duties. Milenkovic contributed to the team’s build-up play and was a vocal presence on the field, marshalling the back line and organising set-piece scenarios with authority.
Forest’s climb into European contention and their memorable 2-1 win over West Ham United are reflections of their newfound stability. As they prepare to face Chelsea in their final fixture, with Champions League qualification still a possibility, Milenkovic’s influence looms large.
From a value-for-money perspective, Nikola Milenkovic is undoubtedly the Best Signing of the Season. His arrival reshaped Forest’s fortunes and demonstrated the impact a single, well-judged transfer can have.
Conclusion
The Premier League 2024-25 season was characterised by moments of magic, rising stars, and shrewd recruitment. Kaoru Mitoma’s dazzling solo goal reminded fans of the beauty of spontaneous brilliance. Dean Huijsen’s breakout campaign highlighted the value of youth and intelligence in defence. And Nikola Milenkovic’s stellar performances underlined how smart investments can yield massive returns.
Each of these moments and individuals enriched a thrilling season, contributing to the drama, excitement, and high quality that have become synonymous with the Premier League. As we reflect on the campaign, these stories stand as enduring symbols of football at its finest.
Do come back for Part 3 of our Premier League season awards!