Messi, Mbappe, Haaland square up for FIFA Best Football Awards

Lionel Messi, fresh from winning the Ballon d’Or, is set to compete with Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland for the FIFA Best Football Awards.

The ceremony, recognizing outstanding performances in the 2022/23 season, takes place in London, England, today, Monday.

The men’s nominees are acknowledged for their achievements from December 19, 2022, to August 20, 2023.

Notably absent from this year’s list is Cristiano Ronaldo, who previously won the award in 2016 and 2017.

Messi, Mbappe, Haaland square up for FIFA Best Footballer Awards
Lionel Messi – Getty image

While it is not yet clear, Lionel Messi will hope to replicate his Ballon d’Or title going into the event, despite the daring competition for the position.

The ceremony will also feature awards in the female category, where the likes of Aitana Bonmati, Linda Caicedo, and Jennifer Hermoso have been shortlisted.

Other prizes include FIFA Puskas Award, best coach for both men and women, best male and female goalkeeper, among others.

Reshmin Chowdhury and Thierry Henry will present the awards, assisted by Duda Pavao, a seasoned media specialist with extensive FIFA event experience.

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