I hope the winner isn't sponsored by Nike...
That fine trophy up there goes to the winner of FIFA’s World Player of the Year, the player who is, in theory, the best player in the world. Of course, it typically only acknowledges European-based players, particularly those in the Champions League, and also tends to skew a little Brazilian (8 of the 18 awards have gone to a Brazilian national).
Still, though, this is what we’ve got. The twenty three finalists were announced yesterday, and – since we’ve only had one poll here ever – I figured I’d see who our readers think the best player in the world is (I’ve already gone on the record with my opinion, but I don’t think he’ll actually win).
The poll is after the jump; if you’re so inclined, I’d also be interested in hearing why you voted for whomever you voted for.
No Arshavin…no vote from me…
Good point; Arshavin’s year last year was WAY better than Diego’s, plus Arshavin actually plays for his national team. I’m a little puzzled by the Diego selection, to be honest.
What!? No Ryan Giggs!?
But seriously, how is Michael Ballack on that list- don’t you have to, you know, play in games and score goals if you’re a striker?
He’s world class when it comes to cheap fouls, that Michael Ballack. We all have different talents.
Iniesta. Proof? Watch the last 2 matches of last year’s CL. Goal vs. CSKA London, complete dominance of the midfield vs. United.
I can see it…plus, don’t forget he was playing on a bum calf for both of those games. So Iniesta at about 75% is better than all of United’s midfield, which is pretty fantastic.
I’m still sticking with Xavi, though; he’s been shut down a few times recently, and the Barcelona attack almost completely falls apart. He’s possibly my favorite player.
No Conor Casey
No David Bentley
No Damian Duff (he’s rubbish now, trust me)
This list is BS.
I voted for Messi, but the Iniesta vote was hard not to cast. Barca was dominant last year, a lot of guys on that squad could have won.
Who in the hell voted for Ballack? They should get an IP ban from this site.
WHERE IS CONOR CASEY?!?!
I was going to vote for Iniesta, precisely because of what WSR said, but then I thought….nah I’m still bitter. Even though I was wrongfully accused, I wasn’t the culprit that voted for Ballack. He drives me crazy half the time, plus he had a terrible season last year.
You could all probably guess who I voted for…Lamps had a heck of a season last year. He was the only consistent player for our side, especially with the mess Scolari left. He scores at least 20 goals a season, and he hasn’t missed a penalty in 3 years.
I don’t think he’ll win it, but I thought I’d give him my vote here at least.