FIFA has unveiled the 12-man shortlist for the Best FIFA Men’s Player Award 2023, with Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen making the list.
Other notable names on the list include Lionel Messi, Erling Haaland, and Kylian Mbappe. Osimhen, who played a vital role in securing Serie A glory for Napoli and reaching the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals, stands as the sole African nominee on the list.
News About Nigeria reports that the Nigerian striker’s rise as a prolific goal-scorer has garnered attention from Europe’s elite clubs, including Manchester United, Bayern Munich, and Chelsea, all expressing keen interest in securing his services in the near future.
The list also prominently features stars from Manchester City’s historic 2022-23 treble-winning squad, under the guidance of coach Pep Guardiola. Guardiola himself has also been nominated for The Best FIFA Men’s Coach.
Haaland leads the Manchester City nominees, followed by Julián Álvarez, Kevin De Bruyne, İlkay Gündoğan (now playing for Barcelona), Bernardo Silva and Rodri. All have been shortlisted for their contributions to the remarkable treble-winning season under Pep Guardiola.
Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappé who led Paris Saint-Germain’s Ligue 1 title win, earns his place on the shortlist. The list also boasts talents like Marcelo Brozović, Hernández Cascante, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Declan Rice of Arsenal.
Below is a comprehensive list:
The Best FIFA Male Player Official nominees
Julian Alvarez
Marcelo Brozovic
Kevin De Bruyne
Ilkay Gundogan
Erling Haaland
Rodri
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
Kylian Mbappe
Lionel Messi
Victor Osimhen
Declan Rice
Bernardo Silva
The Best FIFA Men’s Coach Nominees
Pep Guardiola
Simone Inzaghi
Ange Postecoglou
Luciano Spalletti
Xavi Hernández
