The race for The Best FIFA Men’s Player Award has been narrowed down to a star-studded shortlist, featuring the footballing talents of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Erling Haaland. In the women’s category, Spain’s Aitana Bonmati, who clinched the Golden Ball at the World Cup, has earned her place among the nominees for the Best Women’s Player.
The men’s category boasts an impressive lineup, with half of the dozen nominees hailing from Manchester City’s triumphant squad in the 2022-23 season, where they secured a historic treble. Notably, City’s accomplished manager, Pep Guardiola, has also earned a nomination for Best Men’s Coach.
Spain’s World Cup victory has resulted in four of their players being nominated for the women’s award. England, the World Cup runners-up, have also made a strong showing with four players on the list. Sarina Wiegman, who coached England to their impressive World Cup performance, is among the nominees for the women’s coaching award. Australia is represented by three players.
The reigning top players, World Cup winners Lionel Messi of Argentina and Spain’s Alexia Putellas, are once again in contention for the top individual honors.
The nominees were selected by a panel of soccer experts, including retired players Mia Hamm and Didier Drogba.
Voting for the eighth annual FIFA awards is now open on FIFA.com and will conclude in mid-October. The voting panel comprises national team coaches, captains, journalists, and fans, ensuring a diverse range of perspectives in determining the winners.
