Controversy? Messi is a candidate for the World Footballer of the Year! Questioned: FIFA's own son, Lautaro is more deserved

On November 29, Beijing time, FIFA announced the 11-man shortlist for the 2024 Player of the Year (World Footballer of the Year), and the Argentine superstar Messi, who won the controversial award over Haaland last year, was selected again and became the only player in the list who did not play in a major European league.

As for Messi's shortlisting, FIFA officially gave an explanation: "Although Messi is 37 years old, he still has a huge influence on Miami International and Argentina. After helping the team win the 2023 League Cup, he helped the team win the 2024 Supporters' Shield, a record-breaking MLS regular season title, with an inspiring performance. In addition, Messi led Argentina to the Copa America championship as captain, and also became the top scorer in the South American World Preliminary Tournament at the end of this year with 6 goals. ”

Although Messi's performances and accolades in the past year have been successful enough, and his career has been legendary and great, such an account is clearly not enough to beat many of the current stars who have played in major European leagues to make the World Footballer of the Year 11 shortlist.

Many netizens have left messages under the official FIFA account:"Why is Messi still here, what has he done in the last 1 year?" "Respect Messi, but how can he be on this year's shortlist? "If you had to choose one from Argentina, wouldn't Lautaro be more suitable?" ”

There are also many fans who ridiculed Messi and FIFA: "He is really FIFA's own son!" "What a joke! "Messi must be worthy, the World Cup winner can guarantee him to be selected until the next World Cup!" ”；“ FIFA really doesn't pretend anymore! ”