FIFA’s The Best Awards: Nominees Revealed

The Best Men’s Player Nominees

FIFA has unveiled the nominees for The Best awards, featuring a total of 12 players vying for the title of the best men’s player of 2023. Notably, six Premier League-based players have made the list, including Arsenal’s Declan Rice. Manchester City, the treble-winners, have a strong presence with nominees like Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, Rodri, Julian Alvarez, Bernardo Silva, and former captain Ilkay Gundogan. Victor Osimhen and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia also earn nominations for their instrumental roles in leading Napoli to the Serie A title. A surprise inclusion is Marcelo Brozovic, recognized for his contribution during Inter Milan’s journey to the Champions League final. Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi round out the list, with Messi eyeing his third win of the coveted award.

The Best Awards: A Rivalry with the Ballon d’Or

The Best awards by FIFA serve as a significant rival to the prestigious Ballon d’Or. Earlier this month, the Ballon d’Or nominated 30 players, including Jude Bellingham, Mohamed Salah, Harry Kane, and Martin Odegaard. Interestingly, none of these players find themselves on The Best awards list.

Best Women’s Player Nominees

The category for best women’s player boasts notable contenders, with Women’s World Cup Golden Ball winner Aitana Bonmati leading the pack. Among the nominees are England quartet Rachel Daly, Keira Walsh, Alex Greenwood, and Lauren James, showcasing the strength of English talent in women’s football.

Recognition for the Best Coaches

In the best men’s coach category, Tottenham’s Ange Postecoglou receives recognition for his remarkable achievement in guiding Celtic to an all-conquering domestic treble in his final season in Glasgow. He is joined by coaching stalwarts like Pep Guardiola, Xavi, Luciano Spalletti, and Simone Inzaghi.

For the best women’s coach, England’s Sarina Wiegman and Chelsea’s Emma Hayes are in contention. Surprisingly, former Spain manager Jorge Vilda is absent from the shortlist.

Goalkeeping Excellence

The goal

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