Lionel Messi Wins Again: Best FIFA Men’s Player 2023 Despite Difficult Competition

Lionel Messi, the Argentine forward playing for Inter Miami, secured The Best FIFA Men’s Player of the Year for 2023, outperforming contenders Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe. This marks Messi’s third win, solidifying his status with the most titles in this category.

The voting process involved fans, players, managers, and journalists, covering the period post the 2022 World Cup final until August 20, 2023. Messi’s achievements during this time included winning the Ligue 1 title with Paris Saint-Germain, moving to Inter Miami and clinching the Leagues Cup.

Notably, he reached milestones like his 700th career club goal, 800th career goal overall, and 100th international goal, recording his 1,000th direct club goal involvement. Despite stiff competition, Messi’s win surprised some, especially given Haaland’s exceptional performance in helping Manchester City secure a treble and Mbappe’s crucial role in PSG’s Ligue 1 victory alongside Messi.