Football

Messi magnificence continues: Argentine wizard claims “The Best” FIFA Crown

The magic of Lionel Messi shows no signs of fading. The Argentine maestro etched his name in football history books once again, capturing the prestigious Best FIFA Men’s Player award for the third time on Monday night. Messi, already crowned in 2019 and 2022, edged out young contenders Erling Haaland of Manchester City and Kylian Mbappé of Paris Saint-Germain in a tightly contested race.

The iconic number 10, now plying his trade for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, displayed an age-defying brilliance throughout 2023. His influence on the pitch remained undisputed, as he orchestrated his team’s offense with his trademark passing wizardry and clinical finishing. Messi could not be present at the ceremony which was held in London as he was busy preparing for Inter Miami’s upcoming pre-season friendly against El Salvador, which will be held on Friday. Haaland and Mbappé were also absent.

Meanwhile, Spanish footballer Aitana Bonmatí was adjudged the Best Fifa Women’s Player award while Pep Guardiola and Sarina Wiegman won the male and female Coach of the Year awards respectively.

Achievements in 2023

During the official selection criteria for the top prize, Messi scored 9 goals in 21 games for his now former club, Paris Saint-Germain. Having moved to Miami in July, he scored 11 goals for them, taking them to glory in the Leagues Cup. He also scored five goals in international games. Back in October, Messi has also won the prestigious Ballon d’Or prize for the 8th time.

With this latest triumph, Messi is now the only player to have won the award on three occasions. He edged past Cristiano Ronaldo and Robert Lewandowski, who have both won the prize twice.

The debate for the mantle of “The Best” may rage on, but on this night, it was Lionel Messi who stood tall, his enduring brilliance illuminating the beautiful game once again. His reign at the peak of football shows no sign of diminishing, leaving football fans in anticipation of more historic feats in 2024.