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After scoring an incredible solo goal in Brighton’s 4-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers on August 19, the 26-year-old became the first Japanese player to ever win the individual award.
Mitoma is also the first member of the Brighton team to receive the accolade since former attacker Alireza Jahanbakhsh won it in January 2020.
The Seagulls star got the ball on the touchline just inside Wolves’ half, dribbled past three defenders, and then sent a right-footed shot beyond Jose Sa into the far corner for his first goal of the new campaign.
Prior to joining Brighton, Mitoma authored a thesis on the art of dribbling at the university in his home Japan. Since then, he has made a name for himself as one of the Premier League’s top dribblers.
According to the official website of the Premier League, Mitoma spoke about his goal and collecting his monthly award, saying: “It’s not often I get this kind of award, so I feel honoured, and I’m grateful to my teammates.
“The conclusion of all I’ve been working on was this aim. There was this huge open area once I got past the first defender. I began to move a little faster in the direction of the objective. It made getting past the defences simpler. This is, in my opinion, the best goal I’ve ever scored.
“I believe that this objective will remain in my thoughts once I retire. It does not frequently take place. I hope to continue creating moments like that in the future.
Mitoma defeated Bukayo Saka of Arsenal, Jarrod Bowen of West Ham United, Alexander Isak of Newcastle United, Gustavo Hamer of Sheffield United, Luis Diaz of Liverpool, Raheem Sterling of Chelsea, and Kevin Schade of Brentford to earn Goal of the Year.
James Maddison of Tottenham Hotspur won the Premier League Player of the Month title for August, defeating Brighton’s No. 22.
Mitoma has contributed three assists in four top-flight games this season in addition to his stunning goal against Wolves, helping Brighton earn nine points out of a possible twelve.
When Roberto De Zerbi’s team travels to Old Trafford to take on Manchester United on Saturday afternoon, the Seagulls winger will be hoping to add to his total of goals and assists.
