Lionel Messi (Inter Miami), Lautaro Martínez (Inter Milan), and Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez (Aston Villa) have been nominated for the Globe Soccer Awards’ Best Player of the Year, celebrating their roles in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup victory and consecutive Copa América triumphs. The awards, set to take place on December 27 during the Dubai International Sports Conference, are organized by Globe Soccer in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council and European Clubs Association (ECA).
The Globe Soccer Awards recognize exceptional contributions to football, with Lionel Messi standing out among the nominees. Argentina’s head coach, Lionel Scaloni, is also nominated for Best Coach, while Alejandro Garnacho is up for Best U21 Player, reflecting Argentina’s dominance in global football this year. The team has achieved significant milestones, including another Copa América title and holding the top spots in FIFA and Conmebol rankings.
Messi’s inclusion highlights his stellar performances at Inter Miami and with the national team, cementing his legacy as one of football’s all-time greats. This nomination contrasts Messi’s journey with Cristiano Ronaldo, who remains active with Al Nassr and Portugal, underscoring the Globe Soccer Awards’ emphasis on honoring impactful legends still competing.
The December 27 event in Dubai will feature a distinguished jury of football icons, including Luis Figo, Fabio Capello, and Antonio Conte. Fans also have a chance to participate in online voting, adding a global perspective to the selection process. Lionel Messi, already a global icon, continues to be a focal point for discussions surrounding the awards, especially after a year filled with accolades and performances that reaffirm his stature.
Despite Messi’s nomination, Argentina’s representatives are not considered favorites this year, a sentiment stemming from recent controversies in other awards. For example, the Ballon d’Or decision to award Rodri Hernández over Vinícius Júnior sparked debate, highlighting shifting dynamics in football recognition.
In the previous season, Erling Haaland claimed the Globe Soccer Best Player award, breaking records and securing a treble under Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola. As the Dubai ceremony approaches, Lionel Messi and his fellow nominees await the outcome of one of football’s most anticipated nights, where Messi’s name once again dominates conversations as a symbol of excellence.