Dhaka, Nov 29 (V7N)- Lionel Messi has added yet another accolade to his illustrious career, beating Erling Haaland to claim the FIFA The Best Men’s Player award for 2024. FIFA announced the shortlist for its prestigious annual awards on Thursday (November 29), with Messi standing out among a star-studded lineup of nominees.

The Best Men’s Player Nominees

The shortlist featured 11 outstanding players, including:

  • Lionel Messi (Argentina)
  • Erling Haaland (Norway)
  • Vinícius Júnior (Brazil)
  • Rodri (Spain)
  • Jude Bellingham (England)
  • Kylian Mbappé (France)
  • Lamine Yamal (Spain)
  • Federico Valverde, Toni Kroos, Dani Carvajal (Spain)
  • Florian Wirtz (Germany)

Messi’s Legacy with FIFA The Best

This marks Messi’s fourth win of the FIFA The Best award, having previously claimed it in 2009, 2019, and two years ago. His consistent performances, highlighted by his leadership as Argentina’s captain, continue to solidify his reputation as one of football’s greatest players.

Awards Overview

The awards will consider performances between August 21, 2023, and August 10, 2024. Alongside The Best Men’s Player, other key categories include:

  • Best Women’s Player
  • Best Goalkeeper (Men and Women)
  • Best XI (Men and Women)
  • Best Goal (Puskás Award)
  • FIFA Fan Award

Best Coach of the Year Nominees

Top managers are also being recognized for their remarkable contributions:

  • Carlo Ancelotti (Real Madrid)
  • Lionel Scaloni (Argentina)
  • Pep Guardiola (Manchester City)
  • Luis de la Fuente (Spain)
  • Xabi Alonso (Bayer Leverkusen)

Voting Process

Football fans will have the chance to make their voices heard. Fan votes contribute to:

  • 25% of the total for Best Player, Best Coach, and Best Goalkeeper
  • 50% for the Best Goal and Best XI

The remaining votes come from captains, coaches, and media representatives of FIFA member nations. Fans can vote on FIFA's official website until December 10.

With voting now open, the world eagerly awaits the final results to celebrate the best moments and players of the footballing year.

END/RH/AJ