Nigerian striker, Victor Osimhen has been included along with messi, Haaland and Mbappe in the final 12-man shortlist for the FIFA men’s player of the year award.

Argentina captain, Lionel Messi now playing for MLS side Inter Miami, is the favourite to win the award for a record third time having been given the honour in 2019 and 2022.

England midfielder, Declan Rice also got nominated after captaining former club West Ham United to Europa Conference League success last season.

Julián Álvarez, Marcelo Brozovic, Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gündogan, Rodri, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Bernardo Silva make up the shortlist.

Despite helping Argentina to World Cup glory at Qatar 2022, Messi faces stiff competition from Manchester City forward Haaland after the Norway international scored 52 goals as Pep Guardiola’s side completed a Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup treble last season.

See the full list below: