Argentina and Inter Miami superstar Messi – who now has eight Ballons d’Or to his name – is one of 30 nominees in the running to be named Best Men’s Player for 2023. He is joined on that list by Al-Nassr frontman Ronaldo and Paris Saint-Germain talisman Mbappe.

THE BIGGER PICTURE.

The other contenders include Harry Kane, who is now at Bayern Munich, and prolific Manchester City striker Erling Haaland. The list of nominees is loaded with talent, as Liverpool winger Mohamed Salah and Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham also get the nod.

WHEN IS THE AWARD HANDED OUT?

Karim Benzema, who joined Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Ittihad after leaving Real Madrid in 2023, is the current holder of the Best Men’s Player award. He is looking to defend that title, with the ultimate prize set to be handed out at a glitzy ceremony staged at the spectacular Atlantis, The Palm in Dubai on January 19, 2024.

DID YOU KNOW?

Among the contenders for the Best Women’s Player gong are England and Chelsea defender Millie Bright, Lionesses team-mates Mary Earps and Rachel Daly, along with Ballon d’Or Feminin winner Aitana Bonmati – who has savoured Champions League glory with Barcelona and a World Cup win with Spain in the last 12 months.

WHAT NEXT?

The shortlists will be voted on between December 12 and 28 by fans and Globe Soccer’s Official Jury – which includes industry experts such as Roma legend Francesco Totti, former Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas, ex-Blancos winger Luis Figo and World Cup-winning Italian coach Marcello Lippi.