Olivia Smith has won the PFA Women’s Young Player of the Year award for the second consecutive season after an impressive first campaign with Arsenal.
The Canada international collected the prize at Tuesday evening’s ceremony in Manchester, having previously won the award for her performances at Liverpool.
The latest PFA Awards results confirm Smith has retained the women’s young player prize, completing back-to-back successes with two different clubs.
An electric campaign ⚡️
The winner of the 2026 PFA Young Player of the Year award: Olivia Smith ❤️
— Arsenal Women (@ArsenalWFC) August 25, 2026
Olivia Smith retains award after £1m Arsenal transfer
Smith joined Arsenal from Liverpool last summer in a £1million move, becoming the first player in women’s football to command a seven-figure transfer fee.
She justified that investment by scoring 10 goals in 38 appearances across all competitions during her first campaign in north London.
The Athletic reported Smith’s goalscoring figures when the PFA shortlist was announced, highlighting her impact despite fierce competition for attacking places.
The 21-year-old finished ahead of Chelsea pair Veerle Buurman and Alyssa Thompson, Manchester City midfielder Laura Blindkilde Brown, Tottenham defender Toko Koga and London City Lionesses forward Freya Godfrey.
The PFA confirmed that its awards are decided through votes from fellow professional players, giving Smith successive recognition across the Women’s Super League.
Her previous triumph followed a breakthrough season at Liverpool. The PFA’s official 2025 announcement credited Smith with seven WSL goals during that campaign.
Smith’s latest award follows dramatic Arsenal winner
The recognition arrives just two days after Smith delivered another decisive Arsenal contribution.
She scored a 91st-minute winner against Paris FC on Sunday, securing a 1-0 pre-season victory at Meadow Park.
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