The FIFA Best Men’s Player Award 2024 nominations are finally here, spotlighting some of the most exceptional talents in world football. The competition is fierce, with players like Vinicius Jr., Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, Fede Valverde, and Toni Kroos making the cut. These athletes have all demonstrated extraordinary performances over the past year, and now they are in the running to take home football’s most coveted individual honor.
Let’s take a closer look at the nominees, the voting process, and what makes these players stand out in the world of football in 2024.
The Nominees for the FIFA Best Men’s Player Award 2024
Vinicius Jr. (Real Madrid)
Brazilian winger Vinicius Jr. has been one of the standout performers of the past year. Known for his dazzling dribbles, pace, and creativity, Vinicius played a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s La Liga triumph and their UEFA Champions League success. He scored 24 goals and provided 11 assists across all competitions, further cementing his status as one of the world’s most dangerous attackers.
Kylian Mbappé (Paris Saint-Germain)
Kylian Mbappé continues to dominate world football with his blistering speed and clinical finishing. The French forward has been a key player for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and led his national team to glory in international competitions. His ability to turn a game on its head with a single run or goal is unmatched, and he remains one of the frontrunners for the 2024 FIFA Best Player Award.
Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
At just 21 years old, English midfielder Jude Bellingham has already established himself as one of the most dynamic players in European football. After moving to Real Madrid in the summer of 2023, Bellingham’s performances in La Liga and the Champions League have been nothing short of exceptional. His vision, passing range, and leadership on the field make him a standout contender for the prestigious award.
Rodri (Manchester City)
A key player for Manchester City, Rodri has been instrumental in his team’s successes, including their fourth consecutive Premier League title and the Euro 2024 victory with Spain. His tactical awareness, ability to break up attacks, and leadership in midfield make him one of the best defensive midfielders in the world. Rodri’s performances in both domestic and international tournaments place him among the top nominees for the FIFA Best Men’s Player 2024.
Fede Valverde (Real Madrid)
Uruguayan star Fede Valverde has been crucial in Real Madrid’s midfield, providing energy, creativity, and an ability to score crucial goals. His versatility across the pitch allows him to play various roles, from box-to-box midfielder to wide attacker. His consistent performances have earned him a spot among the 2024 nominees.
Toni Kroos (Retired)
Although Toni Kroos recently retired from international football, the German maestro remains one of the most influential players in world football. Known for his impeccable passing and vision, Kroos was a key figure for both Real Madrid and the German national team. His calm, composed style of play continues to inspire future generations, and his nomination for the 2024 FIFA Best Men’s Player Award is a testament to his lasting impact on the game.
Other Notable Nominees
- Erling Haaland (Manchester City): The Norwegian striker has been a goal-scoring machine for Manchester City, breaking multiple records in the Premier League and UEFA Champions League.
- Lionel Messi (Inter Miami): The 2023 FIFA Best Men’s Player winner remains a contender. Messi led Argentina to Copa America 2024 glory and continues to prove his genius on the field, despite his recent move to Inter Miami.
Voting Process for the FIFA Best Men’s Player Award 2024
The voting for the FIFA Best Men’s Player Award 2024 will involve a democratic process where votes are cast equally by fans, national team captains, and media representatives. Fans from all over the world can contribute to selecting the player they believe deserves the title, making the award truly global. This balanced approach ensures that the best player is chosen by a diverse group of stakeholders in the football community.
The Absence of Cristiano Ronaldo
One notable absence from the 2024 FIFA Best Men’s Player nominations is Cristiano Ronaldo, who recently surpassed 900 career goals. Despite his impressive record of 35 goals for Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, Ronaldo did not make the shortlist for the Best Player Award. However, he has been nominated for the Best Attacker category, showing that his performances continue to garner recognition on the international stage.
When Will the FIFA Best Awards Be Held?
The exact date for the FIFA Best Awards ceremony has not been announced yet, but it is expected to take place in early 2024. The event will celebrate not only the best players but also the top coaches and goalkeepers of the year, providing a comprehensive look at the achievements across the footballing world.
Why This Year’s FIFA Best Award Is Highly Competitive
The 2024 FIFA Best Men’s Player Award promises to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. With multiple world-class players putting in extraordinary performances across domestic leagues, international tournaments, and club competitions, the race for the top prize is incredibly tight. From the clinical finishing of Mbappé to the all-around brilliance of Bellingham, and the unyielding dominance of Vinicius Jr., there’s no clear frontrunner, making this an exciting and unpredictable contest.
Final Thoughts
The FIFA Best Men’s Player Award 2024 is shaping up to be a celebration of the world’s best football talents. From emerging stars like Vinicius Jr. and Bellingham to established superstars such as Mbappé and Messi, the list of nominees reflects the incredible diversity and skill within the modern game. As the voting process continues, fans, players, and media alike will eagerly anticipate the announcement of the winner.
