Real Madrid star claims prestigious honor after a stellar season

Real Madrid and Brazil winger Vinicius Jr has been crowned the FIFA Best Men’s Player of the Year following a phenomenal 2023-24 campaign that saw him lead Real Madrid to domestic and European glory. The 24-year-old collected the prestigious accolade in a glittering ceremony in Doha, Qatar, marking his first-ever FIFA award.

Vinicius’ triumph comes after Real Madrid’s earlier decision to boycott the Ballon d’Or ceremony, where Manchester City’s Rodri was named the winner. However, the FIFA Best recognition further underlines Vinicius’ pivotal role in Real Madrid’s dominance, where he notched 24 goals and 11 assists across all competitions.

Reflecting on his journey, Vinicius delivered an emotional speech:
“It seemed impossible when I played barefoot in the streets of Sao Goncalo, and now I’m here.”

A Season to Remember

Vinicius was instrumental in Real Madrid’s successful campaigns in both La Liga and the UEFA Champions League. His consistency, dazzling flair, and match-winning performances solidified his place among the world’s elite. This award, covering football achievements between August 2023 and August 2024, was decided through a weighted voting system comprising public votes, national team captains and managers, and select journalists.

Spain’s midfield maestro Rodri, fresh from Euro 2024 glory, finished second, while Vinicius’ Real Madrid teammate Jude Bellingham secured third place. Notably, England skipper Harry Kane voted for Rodri, with Bellingham and Vinicius rounding out his picks.

Ancelotti and Garnacho Claim Top Honors

The night also celebrated other standout performers:

Carlo Ancelotti was named FIFA Men’s Coach of the Year after leading Real Madrid to both La Liga and Champions League triumphs. This marks the Italian tactician’s first win at the FIFA Best Awards, solidifying his legendary status in football management.

Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho won the coveted Puskas Award for the year’s best goal. His stunning bicycle kick against Everton in November 2023 left fans and pundits in awe, earning him the prize ahead of Mohammed Kudus’ solo effort for West Ham.

Alejandro Garnacho’s acrobatic strike against Everton was previously named the Premier League’s goal of the season

Team of the Year Dominated by Real Madrid

Real Madrid stars featured prominently in the FIFA FIFPro Men’s Team of the Year, with five representatives, including Vinicius Jr, Jude Bellingham, and the now-retired Toni Kroos. Premier League players also left their mark, with Manchester City’s Rodri and Erling Haaland among the standout names.

The full team included:

• Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa)
• Defenders: Ruben Dias (Man City), William Saliba (Arsenal), Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rudiger (both Real Madrid)
• Midfielders: Jude Bellingham, Toni Kroos (both Real Madrid), Rodri (Man City)
• Forwards: Lamine Yamal (Barcelona), Vinicius Jr (Real Madrid), Erling Haaland (Man City)

Martinez’s Heroics Recognized

Aston Villa and Argentina shot-stopper Emiliano Martinez claimed the FIFA Best Goalkeeper of the Year award for the second time. Martinez’s heroics, particularly during Argentina’s Copa America triumph, cemented his place as one of football’s elite goalkeepers.

A Night of Football Excellence

With Vinicius Jr claiming the top prize, Carlo Ancelotti honored as coach of the year, and Garnacho stealing the spotlight with his Puskas-winning strike, the FIFA Best Awards reaffirmed the talent and brilliance that defined the 2023-24 season.

Vinicius’ victory marks a new chapter for Brazilian football, as he joins the ranks of FIFA’s most celebrated stars.