FRISCO, Texas (Dec. 12, 2023) – FC Dallas announced its 2023 season award winners today.
Defensive Player of the Year – Maarten Paes
Offensive Player of the Year – Jesús Ferreira
Best Goal: Bernard Kamungo vs. Inter Miami CF
Best Celebration: Jáder Obrian - Griddy
Best Save: Maarten Paes vs. LA Galaxy
Best Fit of the Season: Nkosi Tafari Fit 2
The Defensive and Offensive Player of the Year awards were selected by the FC Dallas Technical staff. The Best goal, celebration, save and fit of the season were selected by FC Dallas fans.
Defensive Player of the Year – Maarten Paes
Maarten Paes helped FC Dallas reach the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs for the second consecutive year. Paes continues to impress and in 2023, the Dutch goalkeeper established himself as one of the best at his position across MLS. Paes recorded seven shutouts and recorded a save percentage of 76.4%, the highest in the league. Paes finished seventh in MLS with the most saves, recording his season (7) against the Portland Timbers on June 11.
Offensive Player of the Year – Jesús Ferreira
Homegrown Jesús Ferreira is FC Dallas’ Offensive Player of the Year for the second consecutive year. Ferreira continued to climb the FC Dallas history books in 2023 as he rose to second place for most career goals scored with 49. Ferreira accomplished this after scoring a brace against Real Salt Lake on September 20, 2023. Ferreira led the team in goals scored (12) and assists (6) in 27 regular season appearances. Additionally, Ferreira finished first in MLS regular season play with seven game-winning goals and tied the FC Dallas single-season record.
