Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland Among FIFA Best Player Award Nominees for 2023
In the spotlight once again, Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland are among the top contenders for the FIFA Best Player Award in 2023. Here’s a closer look at the nominees and other noteworthy mentions.
Women’s Category: Aitana Bonmati and Jenni Hermoso Shine Bright
In the women’s category, Aitana Bonmati, the standout player of the Women’s World Cup, and her Spanish teammate Jenni Hermoso have been nominated for the prestigious FIFA Best Player Award.
World Cup Winners in the Spotlight
Both Bonmati and Hermoso were part of the Spanish squad that clinched the Women’s World Cup, earning them well-deserved recognition.
A Controversial Incident in the Spotlight
Jenni Hermoso garnered attention for an unfortunate incident where she was forcibly kissed by the former Spanish football federation president, Luis Rubiales, following their World Cup victory over England. Rubiales has since resigned and faces legal proceedings.
Men’s Category: Manchester City Dominates the Nominee List
In the men’s category, Manchester City’s stellar season is reflected in the nominations. Several key players from the club have made the list for the FIFA Best Player Award.
Manchester City Strikers and Midfielders Shine
Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez, along with midfielders Kevin De Bruyne, Rodri, and Bernardo Silva, have earned nominations for their outstanding performances with Manchester City.
Notable Departure Recognized
Ilkay Gundogan, who contributed significantly to Manchester City’s historic treble-winning season before moving to Barcelona, has also received a nomination.
Messi’s Continued Excellence
Last year’s FIFA Best Player winner, Lionel Messi, finds himself once again among the nominees. His exceptional form with MLS club Inter Miami has earned him a spot on the list.
Controversy in Women’s Coaching Nominees
The women’s coaching category saw notable omissions, including the controversial exclusion of former World Cup-winning Spain coach Jorge Vilda.
Men’s Coaching Nominees
In the men’s coaching category, respected names like Pep Guardiola, Simone Inzaghi, and Ange Postecoglou are among the nominees, representing top clubs like Manchester City and Inter Milan, as well as Tottenham’s new head coach.
These nominations set the stage for an exciting FIFA Best Player Award ceremony in 2023, highlighting outstanding talent and remarkable achievements in the world of football.