Football enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly anticipating the FIFPro World XI awards scheduled for January 15, 2024. The excitement is fueled by the inclusion of the iconic duo, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, in the prestigious list of nominees for the 2023 awards.
The FIFPro World XI stands out as the only international football award exclusively chosen by professional football players themselves. Over 28,000 players participated in the voting process through the FIFPro organization, making it a unique and player-centric recognition.
Strict eligibility criteria have been established to ensure that only players meeting specific requirements are considered for this esteemed accolade, as reported by Sportskeeda. The evaluation period for the nominees spans from August 20, 2023, to December 19, 2022, covering a crucial timeframe in the football season. During this period, players showcased their skills and contributions on the field, making them eligible for nomination.
The voting process involves peer players selecting the final starting eleven, comprising one goalkeeper, three defenders, three midfielders, and three strikers. The player with the highest votes among the nine selected will secure the remaining slot in the starting lineup.
As anticipation grows for the awards night in London, the shortlist for the FIFPro World XI includes football luminaries such as Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, and others. Each nominee on the shortlist has been chosen by their fellow professionals, emphasizing the significance of peer acknowledgment in the football community.
In a parallel development, the race for FIFA’s “The Best Men’s Player of the Year” has narrowed down to Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Erling Haaland. The final three-man shortlist has generated immense excitement among fans worldwide.
The comprehensive shortlist for the FIFPro World XI features three distinguished goalkeepers—Thibaut Courtois, Emiliano Martinez, and Emerson—alongside six defenders, seven midfielders, and seven strikers. Renowned defenders such as Ruben Dias, John Stones, Kyle Walker, Antonio Rudiger, Virgil Van Dijk, and Eder Militao are among those competing for a coveted spot in the World XI lineup.
The stage is set for a thrilling awards ceremony that will celebrate the exceptional talents and contributions of these football stars, recognized by their peers on the global stage.
