In the lead-up to the prestigious FIFA Best awards ceremony, the debate over football's top individual honour is intense. For Mirror Chief Football Writer John Cross, the decision was clear-cut: his vote went to Paris Saint-Germain's electrifying forward, Ousmane Dembele.
The Unstoppable Force Behind PSG's European Glory
Cross argues that Dembele's phenomenal season made him the only logical choice. The French international was the decisive figure in PSG's magnificent Champions League success, a victory that marked the club's first-ever triumph in the competition. Dembele's blend of blistering pace and mesmerising skill terrorised defences throughout Europe, transforming PSG into the continent's most dominant and, in Cross's view, most entertaining side for years.
His influence was particularly profound during the critical run-in to the final. After a period earlier in the campaign where he was not a regular starter, Dembele emerged as the team's spearhead. He embodied a breathtakingly fast, edge-of-your-seat style of play that captivated audiences worldwide.
Enrique's Masterstroke and a New Team Ethic
Cross also praises the transformative work of PSG manager Luis Enrique, who received his vote for Coach of the Year. The Spanish coach boldly moved away from the club's traditional 'superstar model', overseeing the departures of Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi to forge a powerful collective spirit. Dembele, while a superstar in his own right, flourished within this new framework.
Enrique's emotional dedication of the Champions League trophy to his late daughter underscored the human achievement behind the tactical success. Cross also highlights the manager's witty 'farmers' league' jibe, a pointed reference to critics of French football after PSG knocked out English giants Liverpool, Arsenal, and Aston Villa en route to glory.
Honourable Mentions in a Stellar Year
The article acknowledges other outstanding managerial achievements. Arne Slot earned huge credit for guiding Liverpool to the Premier League title in his debut season at Anfield. However, given the global nature of the FIFA award, Cross believes Chelsea's Enzo Maresca deserved significant recognition.
Maresca navigated a challenging season at Stamford Bridge to secure a top-four finish, win the Europa Conference League, and, most notably, lift the Club World Cup last summer. In that final in New Jersey, his tactical masterplan outwitted PSG, with Cole Palmer in electric form, sealing a historic victory for the Blues in the new-look tournament.
Cross concludes that while Maresca may feel under-appreciated, his Club World Cup win is a permanent piece of history that merits greater acclaim.
