The Best FIFA Men’s Player 2023 shortlist has been officially unveiled.
Twelve exceptional players made the cut, each deserving recognition for their contributions to football between December 19, 2022, and August 20, 2023.
Among the luminaries gracing the list is Argentine maestro Lionel Messi. Fresh off his 2022 triumph, Messi is gunning for another win.
Nominees for the Best FIFA Men’s Player 2023
Julian Alvarez
The Manchester City striker played a pivotal role in securing a historic treble – Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League – for his club in the 2022/23 season.
Alvarez’s dynamic play and unwavering work ethic have earned him a spot on this illustrious shortlist. He is the first player ever to win a treble with his club and win a World Cup in the same year.
Marcelo Brozovic
The Croatian midfielder’s consistent brilliance during Inter Milan’s run to the Champions League final and his success in the Coppa Italia and Italian Super Cup have earned him a well-deserved nomination.
Kevin De Bruyne
De Bruyne’s exceptional season with Man City showcased his phenomenal passing, vision, and intelligence, as he bagged ten goals and 31 assists in 49 appearances.
Erling Braut Haaland
The Norwegian sensation struck fear into opposition defences with his incredible goal-scoring prowess, netting 52 goals in 53 appearances for Man City. He is one of the favourites for the award after a standout campaign.
Kylian Mbappe
Mbappe led Paris Saint-Germain to the French title and was named Ligue 1’s Player of the Season. He also spearheaded France to the World Cup final but they fell short in the final. He is another top contender for the Illustrious price.
Bernardo Silva
Silva remains an indispensable playmaker for Man City, playing a key role in their triumphant campaign.
Victor Osimhen
Osimhen’s scintillating form throughout Napoli’s triumphant Serie A campaign showcased him as one of the best and most complete centre-forwards of his generation.
He has become a cult hero in Naples for his showings and is on his way to breaking Nigeria’s all-time top-scoring records.
Declan Rice
The Englishman captained West Ham United to their first major trophy in over 40 years, playing an instrumental role in their Europa Conference League triumph. He was voted the best player at the tournament.
Rodri
Man City’s Rodri continually exemplifies elite technical ability and football intelligence. He also contributed massive goals, such as the winner in the Champions League final against Inter.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
The dazzling Georgian winger took Serie A by storm in his debut season at Napoli, playing a pivotal role in their first Italian championship win since the Diego Maradona era.
He was crowned the Serie A MVP for his showings.
Ilkay Gundogan
Another vital cog in Man City’s machine, Gundogan demonstrated his prowess on the big stage by scoring both of his side’s goals in their 2-1 FA Cup final win over Manchester United.
Lionel Messi
The diminutive attacker bounced back from a disappointing first season in France to deliver a stellar 2022/23 season.
However, his big moment came in December when he scooped the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar to crown his otherworldly silverware collection.
The Nominees for the Best FIFA Men’s Player 2023
- Lionel Messi
- Julian Alvarez
- Marcelo Brozovic
- Kevin De Bruyne
- Ilkay Gundogan
- Erling Haaland
- Rodri
- Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
- Kylian Mbappe
- Victor Osimhen
- Declan Rice
- Bernardo Silva
