Lionel Messi, the star of Inter Miami, made some surprising choices when casting his votes for the 2024 FIFA Best Awards. One notable exclusion from his list was Rodri, who had just won the 2024 Ballon d’Or.
As the captain of Argentina’s national team, Messi had the honor of voting alongside other national team captains, coaches, and media representatives.
At the 2024 FIFA Best Awards ceremony held in Doha, FIFA unveiled their Best Men’s XI for the year. Leading the attack in the lineup is Erling Haaland from Manchester City, joined by Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior, who was recognized as the standout player of the year at the event.
In midfield, Rodri—who secured the Ballon d’Or earlier this year—was paired with Jude Bellingham from England and the retired Toni Kroos.
The defensive lineup includes Arsenal’s William Saliba, Manchester City’s Ruben Dias, and Real Madrid’s Antonio Rudiger and Dani Carvajal. Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa takes his place in goal.
FIFA’s Best XI for 2024:
Emiliano Martinez, Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rudiger, Ruben Dias, William Saliba, Jude Bellingham, Rodri, Toni Kroos, Lamine Yamal, Erling Haaland, Vinicius Junior.
