Otto Addo’s selections reflected a recognition of players who had shown exceptional skill and impact over the past year. By choosing Rodri, Bellingham, and Vinícius Júnior, Addo acknowledged the influence these players had in both their domestic leagues and on the international stage. Rodri’s selection was particularly noteworthy as his consistent performances for Manchester City and the Spanish national team earned him widespread acclaim from coaches and media representatives. Jude Bellingham, on the other hand, emerged as a standout talent with his versatility and goal-scoring ability, which he showcased in his debut season at Real Madrid after leaving Borussia Dortmund. Although Ghana’s captain at the time, Thomas Partey, chose not to submit a vote, the reasons behind his decision remain unclear, leaving fans curious about his rationale.

Vinícius Júnior’s win was a clear indication of the growing influence of fan participation in global football awards. With over one million votes, Vinícius became the first Brazilian to claim the Best Player title in nearly two decades, underscoring the power of social media and fan engagement in modern football. Other awards at the ceremony highlighted the breadth of talent across the sport, with Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmatí winning the Women’s Player of the Year for the second consecutive time and Real Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti earning the Coach of the Year award for leading his team to major successes in the Champions League and La Liga. The event also saw Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho take home the Puskás Award for Best Goal, showcasing his stunning bicycle kick in a match against Everton. The FIFA The Best Awards not only celebrated individual achievements but also underscored the collective effort required to succeed at the highest levels of football.