Ousmane Dembele’s ascent to the pinnacle of world football reached a new height as he claimed the FIFA Best Men’s Player award. This recognition follows his earlier triumph with the Ballon d’Or, solidifying a remarkable year for the Paris Saint-Germain forward and French international.
Dembele’s performance was central to PSG’s long-awaited Champions League victory, a dominant 5-0 final against Inter Milan. His skill and impact on the pitch proved undeniable, driving his team to European glory and earning him widespread acclaim.
The accolades didn’t stop with the player. PSG’s manager, Luis Enrique, was also honored with the FIFA Best Coach award. His strategic brilliance guided the team through a challenging season, culminating in their Champions League success.
PSG’s dominance was further reflected in the FIFA Team of the Year, boasting six players from Enrique’s squad: Gianluigi Donnarumma, Achraf Hakimi, Nuno Mendes, Willian Pacho, Vitinha, and Dembele himself. This impressive representation underscores the team’s collective strength and achievement.
Aitana Bonmati continued her reign as the best in the women’s game, securing the FIFA Best Women’s Player award for a third consecutive year. Like Dembele, she had previously been recognized with the Ballon d’Or, highlighting her consistent excellence.
Bonmati’s success extended beyond club football, playing a pivotal role in Spain’s run to the Euro 2025 final. Her contributions were instrumental to both Barcelona’s domestic treble and her national team’s impressive performance.
The coaching success wasn’t limited to the men’s game. Sarina Wiegman, the manager who led England to victory at Euro 2025, was named the FIFA Best Women’s Coach. Her leadership and tactical acumen were key to the Lionesses’ unforgettable summer.
The voting process revealed intriguing insights into the preferences of footballing figures. Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel, for example, selected Ousmane Dembele, alongside players he’s managed – Harry Kane and Cole Palmer – as his top three for the men’s award.
England captain Harry Kane’s choices also reflected a keen eye for talent, naming Dembele, Vitinha, and Mohamed Salah as his preferred candidates. These votes offer a glimpse into the perspectives of those closest to the game.
The list of nominees for the men’s award included a constellation of stars: Dembele, Hakimi, Kane, Mbappe, Mendes, Palmer, Pedri, Raphinha, Salah, Vitinha, and Yamal – each representing the highest level of skill and dedication in the sport.
Unable to attend the ceremony in person, Sarina Wiegman expressed her gratitude via video link, acknowledging the support she’d received and emphasizing the importance of continued progress for the women’s game. She envisioned a future where every player could reach their full potential.
Wiegman’s message resonated with a sense of ambition and unity, underscoring her commitment to pushing the boundaries of women’s football and creating a more inclusive and empowering environment for all.
