The 1998/99 PFA Team of the Season: A Golden Era of Premier League Talent
The Premier League's 1998/99 season will forever be remembered for its high-intensity competition, individual brilliance, and defining moments that shaped English football’s modern era. It was the year Manchester United achieved their historic treble, but the season also showcased exceptional talent from various clubs. The PFA Team of the Season, chosen by the players themselves, represented the pinnacle of footballing excellence at the time. This lineup included a mix of emerging stars and seasoned professionals, who set the standard for top-level performances throughout the campaign.
Goalkeeper: Nigel Martyn (Leeds United)
Nigel Martyn’s performances for Leeds United during the 1998/99 season were nothing short of outstanding. Only two teams conceded fewer goals than Leeds throughout the campaign, with Martyn playing a pivotal role in their defensive solidity. His ability to pull off crucial saves and command his penalty area saw him keep 13 clean sheets, an impressive feat in a highly competitive league. These performances were instrumental in Leeds securing their highest league finish since they were crowned champions in the final pre-Premier League season. Martyn's consistency and leadership from the back earned him deserved recognition as one of the Premier League’s top goalkeepers that year.
Right-back: Gary Neville (Manchester United)
Gary Neville, known for his defensive intelligence and unyielding work ethic, was a stalwart in Manchester United’s defense. A vocal leader on the pitch, Neville was vital in United’s treble-winning campaign, providing both defensive stability and an outlet going forward. His partnership with David Beckham on the right flank gave United balance, with Neville’s overlapping runs often freeing up Beckham to deliver his trademark crosses.
Centre-back: Sol Campbell (Tottenham Hotspur)
At the heart of Tottenham's defense was Sol Campbell, whose athleticism, strength, and leadership made him one of the most formidable defenders in the Premier League. Despite Spurs finishing mid-table, Campbell’s individual performances stood out. His ability to dominate aerial battles and his calmness under pressure earned him a place in the PFA Team of the Season, reflecting his status as one of the league’s elite defenders.
Centre-back: Jaap Stam (Manchester United)
Jaap Stam’s first season at Manchester United was nothing short of exceptional. The Dutchman, known for his physical presence and composure on the ball, quickly became the backbone of United’s defense. Stam's towering figure and positional awareness made him a vital component of Alex Ferguson’s side. His ability to read the game and snuff out attacks played a crucial role in United’s success, and his dominance earned him widespread acclaim.
Left-back: Denis Irwin (Manchester United)
Denis Irwin was a model of consistency and professionalism. Known for his ability to defend solidly and contribute to attacks with pinpoint crosses and accurate free-kicks, Irwin was a key part of Manchester United’s defensive line. His intelligence on the ball and versatility (able to play on either side of the defense) made him indispensable for Ferguson. His inclusion in the PFA Team of the Season was well deserved as he played a pivotal role in United’s historic year.
Right-wing: David Beckham (Manchester United)
Few players had as much influence on the pitch as David Beckham during the 1998/99 season. Beckham’s precision in crossing and set-pieces was unmatched, and his ability to deliver inch-perfect balls to his teammates was a major factor in Manchester United’s attacking success. His relentless work ethic and commitment to the cause, combined with his flair for the spectacular, solidified his place as one of the best right-sided midfielders in the world.
Midfield: Patrick Vieira (Arsenal)
Patrick Vieira was the engine of Arsenal’s midfield. His physicality, combined with technical skill and vision, allowed him to dominate games in both attack and defense. Vieira's ability to break up opposition play and launch counter-attacks was crucial to Arsenal's style of play under Arsène Wenger. His commanding performances throughout the season earned him a well-deserved spot in the PFA Team of the Season, as he continued to establish himself as one of the league’s best central midfielders.
Midfield: Emmanuel Petit (Arsenal)
Vieira's midfield partner, Emmanuel Petit, was equally instrumental in Arsenal's strong campaign. The Frenchman’s versatility allowed him to excel as both a defensive midfielder and a playmaker. Petit's vision and passing range were critical in linking Arsenal’s defense to their attack, while his tackling and positional awareness helped shore up the midfield. The combination of Petit and Vieira was one of the most formidable midfield pairings in Premier League history.
Left-wing: David Ginola (Tottenham Hotspur)
David Ginola was a flair player who could change a game with a moment of brilliance. Known for his dribbling ability, vision, and creativity, Ginola was Tottenham’s standout performer during the 1998/99 season. His breathtaking performances earned him the PFA Players’ Player of the Year award, a rare feat for someone not playing for one of the top sides. Ginola's artistry on the ball and his penchant for scoring spectacular goals made him a fan favorite and a deserving member of the PFA Team of the Season.
Forward: Dwight Yorke (Manchester United)
Dwight Yorke had a sensational season in 1998/99, finishing as the Premier League’s joint-top scorer with 18 goals. Yorke formed a telepathic partnership with Andy Cole, and their interplay up front was key to Manchester United’s attacking prowess. Yorke’s ability to drop deep, link up play, and find the back of the net in crucial moments made him one of the most feared strikers in Europe. His performances in both domestic and European competitions were instrumental in United's treble success.
Forward: Nicolas Anelka (Arsenal)
At just 20 years old, Nicolas Anelka took the Premier League by storm during the 1998/99 season. With his electric pace, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing, Anelka led the line for Arsenal, scoring 17 league goals. His ability to stretch defenses and finish with composure beyond his years made him one of the standout players in the league. Anelka’s incredible form earned him the PFA Young Player of the Year award, and his place in the PFA Team of the Season was richly deserved.
A Team for the Ages
The 1998/99 PFA Team of the Season encapsulated the best of Premier League football. It was a year defined by Manchester United’s treble, but players from across the league contributed moments of brilliance that shaped the season. From the defensive solidity of Sol Campbell and Jaap Stam to the attacking flair of David Ginola and Nicolas Anelka, this team was packed with talent that would go on to define an era of English football.
The legacy of this team endures, as many of these players became icons of the sport. Whether it was through their leadership, creativity, or goal-scoring prowess, each member of the 1998/99 PFA Team of the Season left an indelible mark on the history of the Premier League.