LIONEL Messi and Spain’s Aitana Bonmatí were named as the best outfield players in the world this week, along with awards for Mary Earps and Ederson as the best goalies.
Messi was named The Best FIFA Men’s Player again, holding onto the title he won last year. Although in recent seasons some had said Messi was past his best, his performances were key to Argentina winning the World Cup in December 2022.
Pundits were also raving about Bonmatí’s genius in midfield as she led Spain to the World Cup final, where they beat England 1-0. England keeper Earps’ popularity soared after her heroics in that game and she was also named best keeper at that tournament.
Among the other awards, England boss Sarina Wiegman was named The Best FIFA Women’s Coach, while Man City’s treble-winning Pep Guardiola won the men’s award.
