The international football fraternity was abuzz on September 14 as FIFA unveiled the esteemed list of nominees for its coveted "The Best Men's Player" award. Leading the charts were none other than the titanic trio: Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Erling Haaland.
Having transitioned to Inter Miami in the summer transfer, Messi showcased why he remains one of football's greatest assets. He was pivotal in Argentina's triumphant FIFA World Cup campaign in Qatar. Beyond the international stage, Messi clinched the Ligue 1 title with PSG. Alongside him in PSG was the electrifying Kylian Mbappe. The forward was paramount in France's journey to the World Cup final, where they faced a narrow defeat to Argentina.
Meanwhile, Erling Haaland, the Manchester City forward, had a season that could best be described as surreal. Surpassing the 50-goal mark, Haaland not only secured the Premier League Golden Boot award but also played an integral role in Manchester City's dream treble season. His prowess also won him the UEFA Men's Player Of The Year award.
Behind City's triumphant treble was the visionary, Pep Guardiola. His tactical genius has rightly placed him at the forefront of the Best Men's Coach of the Year nominations.
In the women's segment, Aitana Bonmati, fresh off her victory as the UEFA Women's Player Of The Year, finds herself nominated for The Best Women's Player award. Joining her in the nominations are notable talents like Salma Paralluelo and Lauren James.
The excitement isn't limited to players alone; the nominations have ignited conversations among fans globally. Enthusiasts have until October 6 to cast their votes in each category.
A glance at the full list of nominations presents a tapestry of international talent:
FIFA Men's Player Nominees:
Including Julian Alvarez, Marcelo Brozovic, Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gundogan, Erling Haaland, Rodri, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi, Victor Osimhen, Declan Rice, and Bernardo Silva.
FIFA Women's Player Nominees:
Names like Aitana Bonmati, Linda Caicedo, Rachel Daly, Kadidiatou Diani, Caitlin Foord, and several other phenomenal players stand out.
FIFA Men's Coach Nominees:
Apart from Pep Guardiola, we have Simone Inzaghi, Ange Postecoglou, Luciano Spalletti, and Xavi.
FIFA Women's Coach Nominees:
Featuring Peter Gerharsson, Jonatan Giraldez, Tony Gustavsson, Emma Hayes, and Sarina Wiegman.
FIFA Men's Goalkeeper Nominees:
Goalkeeping stalwarts like Yassine Bounou, Thibaut Courtois, Ederson, Andre Onana, and Marc-Andre ter Stegen have made the list.
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