Sevilla's Navas Named Europa League Player Of The Season

Sevilla's veteran right-back Jesus Navas has been crowned the Europa League Player of the Season, recognizing his remarkable contributions to his team's historic seventh triumph in the tournament.

The 37-year-old Navas played an instrumental role in Sevilla's success, particularly in the final against AS Roma, where his pinpoint cross led to the equalizing goal. Ultimately, Sevilla clinched victory with a 4-1 penalty shootout win following a 1-1 draw.

Throughout the tournament, Navas exhibited his exceptional skills and leadership as the captain of the Spanish side.

?? Jesús Navas takes the award after captaining Sevilla to a 7th #UEL title! ?

— UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) June 4, 2023

He featured in nine matches in UEFA's esteemed second-tier competition, impressively notching three assists. Navas' experience, technical proficiency, and unwavering determination were instrumental in guiding his team to glory.

In recognition of his outstanding performances, Bayer Leverkusen's young midfield prodigy Florian Wirtz was bestowed with the Europa League Young Player of the Season award. The 20-year-old German talent played a crucial role in his team's journey to the semifinals before narrowly falling to Roma with a 1-0 aggregate score.

On the team of the season., Manchester United forward, Marcus Rashford and Nigerian striker Victor Boniface were included.

The selection was largely dominated by the winning side, Sevilla with Rakitic, Acuna, Yassine Bounou and Navas included. Roma defender Chris Smalling was also chosen in the centre-back position.

 

Introducing the Europa League Team of the Season, selected by UEFA's Technical Observer panel ✨#UEL pic.twitter.com/qaecTtoirP

— UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) June 4, 2023