The highly anticipated Fifa Best Footballer Awards are currently taking place in London, with football enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the announcement of the winners. In contrast to the Ballon d’Or, these awards consider performances throughout the year rather than just the European football season.
The event will showcase several significant awards, including the top men’s player, which will feature the exceptional talents of Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi, and Erling Haaland. In the women’s category, Aitana Bonmati, Linda Caicedo, and Jennifer Hermoso will vie for the top spot. The distinguished Puskas Award for the best goal will also be contested by standout players such as Julio Enciso, Guilherme Madruga, and Nuno Santos. Additionally, coaching honours will be acknowledged, with contenders such as Pep Guardiola, Sarina Wiegman, and Emma Hayes in the running for the awards.
Regarding the men’s player category, the previous winner and current Ballon d’Or holder, Lionel Messi, will face stiff competition from the next generation of football superstars in Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe. Messi has delivered outstanding performances, scoring a total of nine goals with PSG while also netting 10 goals in just seven matches for Inter Miami in the Leagues Cup. Similarly, Haaland made a significant impact in the Premier League, securing a record 36 goals last season and an impressive 28 goals in all competitions after the World Cup, totalling 52 in a single season.
The judging for the men’s awards will be based on performances from 19 December 2022 to 20 August 2023, commencing after the previous year’s World Cup. On the other hand, the women’s awards will consider performances between 1 August 2022 and 20 August 2023.
Fans can watch the awards live on various platforms, including the Fifa website, Fifa+, BBC iPlayer, and online streaming services from 7.30 pm GMT.
The Best Awards serve as Fifa’s equivalent of the Ballon d’Or and encompass various categories, including the best men’s and women’s player, coach, and goalkeeper. The event will also feature the renowned Puskas Award for the best goal, as well as accolades for fan and fair play. Moreover, a men’s and women’s world XI will be named during the ceremony.
This event has generated immense excitement among football enthusiasts and is sure to provide an exceptional display of talent, skill, and sportsmanship. Stay tuned for all the latest updates and the announcement of the winners!