Lionel Messi named FIFA’s Best Men’s Player for 2023, Aitana Bonmati wins Best Women’s Player
Argentinian football star Lionel Messi was awarded FIFA’s Best Men’s Player for 2023, causing controversy among fans and experts. The 36-year-old claimed the prestigious award for the third time, surprising many who expected Norwegian sensation Erling Haaland to win. Despite a relatively quiet period at Paris Saint-Germain, Messi managed to secure the accolade thanks to his outstanding performances during the timeframe from December 2022 to August 2023, which included leading Argentina to World Cup victory.
While Messi’s win dominated the headlines, it was also a night of triumph for Manchester City. Aitana Bonmati, a Spanish footballer, added to her collection of individual honors by winning the Best Women’s Player award. Bonmati had a phenomenal year, contributing to Spain’s World Cup triumph and Barcelona’s Champions League success in 2023. Her remarkable achievements also earned her the Ballon d’Or, Golden Ball, and UEFA Player of the Year titles.
In addition to the individual awards, Pep Guardiola, the mastermind behind Manchester City’s first-ever Champions League victory, was named Best Coach. Guardiola expressed his joy and gratitude for the incredible journey his team had experienced.
Among the notable absences from the ceremony were Messi, Haaland, and Kylian Mbappe, who all failed to attend. Thierry Henry, the co-host of the event and an Arsenal and France legend, accepted Messi’s award on his behalf.
The team of the year included several Manchester City players, such as Kyle Walker, John Stones, Ruben Dias, Bernardo Silva, and Kevin De Bruyne. Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois, Jude Bellingham, and Vinicius Junior, along with Messi and Mbappe, completed the star-studded lineup. Ederson from Manchester City was crowned Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year, while England and Manchester United’s Mary Earps won the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award.
Sarina Wiegman, the coach of the England women’s national team, was honored as the Women’s Coach of the Year for leading the Lionesses to the World Cup final. Additionally, seven English women players were included in the team of the year.
The fair play award went to the Brazilian men’s team, who wore all black shirts in solidarity with Vinicius, a forward who faced racist abuse while playing for Real Madrid. The Puskas award for the best goal was won by Guilherme Madruga of Botafogo for his stunning overhead kick.
Overall, the FIFA awards ceremony celebrated the outstanding achievements of both Lionel Messi and Aitana Bonmati, recognizing their exceptional contributions to the world of football in 2023.
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