Chelsea and Italy star Jorginho named Uefa men's player of the year

Blues manager Thomas Tuchel voted men's coach of the year in Istanbul

(FILES) In this file photo taken on August 14, 2021 Chelsea's Italian midfielder Jorginho reacts at the final whistle during the English Premier League football match between Chelsea and Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge in London. - The UEFA Player of the Year award, to be presented on August 26, 2021, could shine a spotlight on a player from the shadows, with Chelsea's Jorginho and N'Golo Kante in the shortlist alongside Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne. (Photo by Glyn KIRK / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. /

The National

Aug 27, 2021

Chelsea and Italy midfielder Jorginho capped a memorable season when he was named Uefa men's player of the year in Istanbul on Thursday.

Jorginho beat club teammate N'Golo Kante and Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne to the top prize.

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The 29-year-old starred alongside Kante as Chelsea won the Champions League after defeating De Bruyne's City in the final in Porto. He then played a pivotal role as Italy won Euro 2020 after beating England in the final.

“That's a huge thing, isn't it? I'm lost for words. It's unbelievable, really,” Jorginho told Uefa.

“I have to say how grateful I am. Not only for my family and friends, but for my team-mates at both club and country, coaches, fans. All those who didn't believe in me, who criticised me, I have to thank them too.

“It's just really surreal for me based on where I've come from, my background. I come from a small town, Imbituba – I'm not sure you've heard the name before. I've achieved so much with trophies and awards,” he added.

Uefa said Jorginho had won 175 points in the voting, while De Bruyne got 167 and Kante 160. Lionel Messi, a six-time Ballon d'Or winner, was fourth with 148.

Meanwhile, Barcelona's Alexia Putellas won the women's player of the year award after captaining her side to the Champions League title, scoring in the 4-0 final win over Chelsea.

In other categories, Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel was voted men's coach of the year. The Champions League finalists dominated other categories as well. Goalkeeper of the year award went to Chelsea’s Edouard Mendy, while City’s Ruben Dias was named defender of the year.