Africa-Press – Mozambique. As the end of 2025 approaches, FIFA handed out its annual trophies during The Best gala, an evening largely dominated by Paris Saint-Germain. Luis Enrique claimed the Coach of the Year award, while Ousmane Dembélé won the Men’s Player of the Year title, decisions that raised little debate.
However, beyond these consensual honors, several results and voting choices quickly sparked intense reactions across Europe and South America, turning the ceremony into a hot topic of discussion the very next morning.
The first major controversy centered on Raphinha’s absence from the Team of the Year despite his outstanding season with FC Barcelona. His omission provoked outrage in Brazil, amplified by a strong reaction from his wife on social media and criticism from local media, who questioned the inclusion of Jude Bellingham and Cole Palmer instead.
Tensions grew further over certain votes, notably Lionel Messi’s ballot, which placed Dembélé ahead of Lamine Yamal, a choice heavily criticized in Barcelona. The situation worsened when Spain coach Luis de la Fuente ranked Pedri above Yamal, costing the young prodigy valuable points.
Finally, Luka Modric’s decision not to vote for Kylian Mbappé also surprised observers, confirming once again that FIFA awards rarely pass without controversy.
