Poland and Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski has been crowned UEFA’s player of the year.
The 32-year-old saw off opposition from club teammate and German number one Manuel Neur and the Belgium and Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne.
The Polish forward enjoyed the most prolific season of his career, scoring a remarkable 55 times in 47 appearances for the Bavarians.
After receiving the award, the striker said: “It’s an amazing feeling, thank you to my teammates and coach.”
UEFA, European football’s governing body, hosted the ceremony on Thursday evening in Nyon, Switzerland.
The voting process pits 55 journalists representing each of UEFA’s member associations along with managers of clubs in the group stages of the Champions League and Europa League.
The managers selected are not allowed to vote for players that represent their club.
Additional to the players of the year award are coach, goalkeeper, defender, midfield and striker of the year.
Lewandowski also took the latter award, whilst his Bayern teammates and coach dominated the other categories.
Bayern Munich had a glorious 2019/20 season, even by their high standards, scooping a memorable treble of the German league and cup, plus the Champions League.
Lewandowski also appeared to be a prime candidate for football’s most prestigious individual award, the Ballon d’Or.
However, that gong was cancelled by France Football due to the COVID-19 pandemic.