Lionel Messi has been named the best player at the 2022 FIFA Best awards ceremony in Paris, France. The PSG Forward’s outstanding performance at the 2022 World Cup has been rewarded with his second FIFA BEST award. The FIFA World XI was also unveiled, and it featured stars who were impressive at the 2022 World Cup, and also some standout players who were picked based on their club form last season.
Since the remodelling of the FIFA World Player of the year award, Messi has appeared on the top 3 shortlist more times than any other player. His win yesterday also puts him on the same number of wins as Cristiano Ronaldo (2).
Messi inspired his country to their third World Cup triumph in Qatar, scoring 7 goals and also providing 4 assists.
FIFA PRO XI
Emiliano Martínez, who was a hero in the final of the World Cup for Argentina, picked up the FIFA Best Goalkeeper of the year award, but Thibaut Courtois was picked ahead of him in the FIFA XI. Hakimi, Virgil Van Dijk, and João Cancelo make up the defence.
Kevin Debruyne makes the list despite Belgium’s disappointing World Cup campaign. He is in midfield alongside Luka Modrić and former Real Madrid star Casemiro. Messi, Benzema, Haaland, and Kylian Mbappé makes it a packed attack with a 3-3-4 shape.
Marcin Olesky’s overhead kick was picked for the PUSKÁS award. The goal was picked ahead of Richarlison’s gorgeous overhead kick at the World Cup finals against Serbia. It also beat Dmitry Payet’s screamer against PAOK Thessaloniki.
Alexa Putellas also picked up the FIFA BEST women’s Player award, ahead of Beth Mead and Alex Morgan. Lionel Scaloni of Argentina (Men) and Sarina Wiegman of England (Women) were named coaches of the year respectively.
