The football world is buzzing as the nominees for the prestigious 2024 FIFA Best Football Awards have been unveiled. Hardly a day goes by without passionate discussions around who deserves the accolades among the elite performers of the past year, and this year is no different. The nominees include some of the biggest names from across the globe, reflecting contributions from club and international stages alike.
Leading the nominations for the Best FIFA Men’s Player is none other than Lionel Messi, captain of the Argentine national team. His stellar performances not only led Argentina to glory at the Copa America but also helped Inter Miami win the Leagues Cup. Joining him on the list are notable talents such as Kylian Mbappé of Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, both of whom contributed strong seasons to their teams.
Over on the women’s side, Aitana Bonmati, who guided Barcelona to another incredible season, is recognized for her contributions on the pitch. The World Cup winner is pitted against equally talented nominees including Sophia Smith of Portland Thorns and America’s own Mallory Swanson standing out with impressive seasons as well. The list showcases the phenomenal talents of women’s football, highlighting not just players but also devoted coaches who tirelessly push their teams to achieve new milestones.
Among those receiving accolades, the Best FIFA Women’s Coach nomination goes to Jonatan Giráldez, who had tremendous success with Barcelona before moving to Washington Spirit, where he has already made his mark. This nod is indicative of the growing recognition of the tactical brilliance within women's football.
Lautaro Martinez, captain of Argentina and standout striker for Inter Milan, was surprisingly left out of the nominations for the Best FIFA Men’s Player. Inter President Beppe Marotta expressed his disappointment, stating, “It’s surprising and disappointing. His extraordinary performances over the last year went unmatched.” Martinez played pivotal roles, leading his club to victory and showcasing exceptional skill during the Copa America.
While discussion continues over who deserves to be recognized this year, the FIFA Football Awards also features comprehensive categories including the Best FIFA Women’s Player, Best FIFA Men’s Player, Best FIFA Women’s Coach, and the inaugural FIFA Marta Award. The latter will celebrate the best goal scored by a woman, named after the Brazilian who has long been regarded as one of the greatest players of all time.
Fans around the globe will have their say as voting opened on FIFA.com, allowing them to support their favorites until December 10, leading up to the much-anticipated ceremony scheduled for January 2025.
This year marks the ninth edition of the awards, celebrated not just for recognizing individual brilliance but also highlighting the collective achievements of teams and their strategies. The nominations also reflect impactful contributions to football globally, especially as the sport continues to grow and evolve, inspiring the next generation of players.
With each announcement, the anticipation builds, showcasing talent and hard work from various corners of the world. Such recognitions not only serve to honor individual accomplishments but also encourage players to continue striving for excellence on the global stage.
The Best FIFA Awards are more than just accolades; they signify the dedication of athletes and coaches who train rigorously and embody the spirit of competitive sports. This year's nominees exemplify what it means to be at the top of their game, and the choices made will resonate throughout the upcoming season.
It’s also worth noting the representation from the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL). Several NWSL stars have received nominations for their performances, emphasizing the league’s rising prominence and influence within women’s football. Players like Trinity Rodman and Alyssa Naeher have been pivotal both at club and national levels, highlighting the depth of talent present within the league.
Another exciting element of this year’s awards is the inclusion of the FIFA Marta Award for the best goal scored by a female player worldwide. This addition seeks to honor not just the artistry of scoring but also the significant moments created through women’s sports.
Football fans are waiting with bated breath as the nominees gear up for the awards ceremony. Discussions are sure to evoke debates on who should take home the honor of being named the Best FIFA Player, Coach, and more. But one thing is for sure — the passion ignited by this event will showcase the best of football talent across the globe.
The countdown begins, and the excitement builds as nominations are established, sparking conversation and analysis across the football community. With each nomination, players gain recognition, not just for their skills but also for inspiring countless fans worldwide.
Each individual's story contributes to the rich narrative of football’s evolution, and the upcoming awards are just another chapter of this thrilling saga.
Who will take home the accolades this year? The football world will be watching closely as we gear up for what promises to be another unforgettable celebration of the beautiful game.