This archive report was first published on 23 September 2019.
On September 23, 2019, the 2019 FIFA Football Awards took place at the Teatro alla Scala in Milan, Italy, with Lionel Messi emerging as the winner of the prestigious FIFA Men's Player award.
Messi, who plays for FC Barcelona and the Argentina national team, edged out Cristiano Ronaldo and Virgil van Dijk, who were also shortlisted for the award. The three players had also made the shortlist for the UEFA Player of the Year award, with Van Dijk ultimately winning that honor.
However, Messi's impressive performance in the 2018-2019 season, which saw him score over 50 goals for Barcelona, earned him the top spot in the FIFA Men's Player award. The award ceremony was held in Milan, and Messi was presented with the award in a colorful ceremony.
Other notable winners at the awards included Jurgen Klopp, who was named the Best FIFA Men's Coach, and Alisson Becker, who won the Best FIFA Men's Goalkeeper award. Liverpool, who had a remarkable season, winning the Champions League title, were also recognized as one of the biggest winners of the night.
Full List of Winners:
- The Best FIFA Men's Player: Lionel Messi (Argentina/Barcelona)
- The Best FIFA Men's Goalkeeper: Alisson Becker (Brazil/Liverpool)
- The Best FIFA Women's Goalkeeper: Sari van Veenendaal (Netherlands/Arsenal/Atlético Madrid)
- The Best FIFA Men's Coach: Jurgen Klopp (Germany/Liverpool)
- FIFA Puskas Award: Daniel Zsori (Hungary) for his goal in the Hungarian First Division
