Davies named Canada’s soccer player of the year

TORONTO — Alphonso Davies gave Canadian soccer fans a reason to celebrate during an otherwise dreadful time.

While many were hunkered in their homes last spring, battling the COVID19 pandemic, and with North American sports on hiatus, the Canadian focus shifted to Davies and his journey with FC Bayern Munich to the UEFA Champions League title.

Davies was a beacon of light during a dark period across the country and for his efforts on Thursday was named Player of the Year by Canada Soccer. It’s the second time Davies has won the award, which could be a prelude to him being named Canadian Athlete of the Year.

“Being so young and having people look up to me is incredible,” Davies said on Thursday. “The run I’ve been on with Bayern has been amazing. I just want to say that I’m happy for all the support I’m getting back home and I just want to thank everyone that has supported me, as well.”

Davies, 20, had a magical 2019-20 season with Bayern, winning the German Bundesliga title, the German Cup, the German Super Cup, the Champions League and the UEFA Super Cup. He was clocked as the fastest player in Bundesliga history, was named league rookie of the year and made the Champions League squad of the season, all while acting as a United Nations Refugee Agency supporter.

Davies also graced the cover of the latest edition of the Pro Evolution Soccer video game alongside Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Marcus Rashford.