Lionel Messi was crowned The Best and, for the eighth time in his career, was voted the best player in the world by FIFA. But this time it was a surprise.
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Inter Miami’s number 10, also winner of the Ballon d’Or in 2023, surpassed favorite Haaland, from Manchester City, and Mbappé, from PSG, who completed the podium.
None of the three finalists were present at the ceremony. Given the absence of Messi, the host of the event, former player and commentator Thierry Henry even joked with the audience: “Can I have the trophy, then? I never won…”
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The surprise with the award was clear with the timid applause from the audience and the good-humored reaction of the presenters. The Fifa The Best analysis period was from December 19, 2022, one day after the World Cup, until August 20, 2023.
It’s worth remembering that FIFA has awarded the best player in the world since 1991, and the best player since 2001. FIFA The Best, in its current format, was created in 2016.
The current ceremony also awards the best goalkeeper, the best goalkeeper, the best coach in men’s football, the best coach or best coach in women’s football, the most beautiful goal in the Puskás Award, and also Fair Play and fan support.