The anticipation for the Best FIFA Men’s Player award is building up as the official nominees for the prestigious accolade have been announced. Since 2016, FIFA has been honoring the player who has excelled in the world of football over the preceding year with this esteemed award.
Previously known as the FIFA World Player of the Year award, it merged with France Football’s Ballon d’Or in 2010 to become the FIFA Ballon d’Or after a six-year collaboration. Now, it is recognized as the Best FIFA Men’s Player award.
The eligibility period for the men’s awards, including Best FIFA Men’s Player, Best FIFA Men’s Coach, and Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper, spanned from December 19, 2022, to August 20, 2023, encompassing the period after the 2022 World Cup.
Fans have the opportunity to cast their votes for their favorite players in various categories. The public vote, conducted via FIFA.com, contributes to a portion of the total vote, alongside a jury consisting of international managers, leaders of national teams, and select prominent journalists.
The shortlist for The Best FIFA Men’s Player award features several players from the triumphant 2022-23 Manchester City team, which secured a historic treble. Additionally, Pep Guardiola, the manager of Manchester City, is among the nominees for The Best FIFA Men’s Coach award, alongside four other esteemed peers.
One notable point of discussion surrounding the shortlist is the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo, the two-time winner of the Best FIFA Men’s Player award, who currently plays for Al Nassr. Instead, Leo Messi, the most recent recipient of the award and a player for Inter Miami, has been included.
Among the Spanish nominees, Aitana Bonmat, the Golden Ball winner, stands out as the frontrunner. The 16-player shortlist also features four players from England, who finished as runners-up in the competition, as well as three Australian athletes.
The 12 nominees for the Best FIFA Men’s Player award were selected based on their outstanding achievements between December 19, 2022, and August 20, 2023. Each nominee has been recognized for their consistent brilliance during this period.
Official Nominees for The Best FIFA Men’s Player Award 2023:
– Julian Alvarez
– Marcelo Brozovic
– Kevin De Bruyne
– Ilkay Gundogan
– Erling Haaland
– Rodri
– Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
– Kylian Mbappe
– Lionel Messi
– Victor Osimhen
– Declan Rice
– Bernardo Silva
As the football world eagerly awaits the announcement of the winner, the competition for The Best FIFA Men’s Player award promises to be intense. The recipient of this prestigious honor will be celebrated for their exceptional contributions to the sport during the designated eligibility period.