Two Africans have been named as nominees for a spot in the FIFA XI of the year, with Ivorian Didier Drogba listed in the attacking position alongside other football luminaries such as Ronaldo, Messi, Aguero, and Suarez. This announcement follows the earlier selection of Drogba’s compatriot, Yaya Touré, who was nominated as a midfielder. The final members of the FIFA XI will be unveiled during the gala scheduled for January 13.
Drogba joins an illustrious list of nominees for the attacking position, showcasing the diversity of talent across different football leagues. The gala on January 13 will not only reveal the FIFA XI but also the winner of the next Ballon d’Or. The three finalists for the Ballon d’Or, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Franck Ribéry, were disclosed earlier on Monday.
The full list of nominees for the attacking position includes:
- Sergio Agüero (Manchester City)
- Mario Balotelli (AC Milan)
- Edinson Cavani (Naples/Paris Saint-Germain)
- Diego Costa (Atlético Madrid)
- Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid)
- Didier Drogba (Galatasary)
- Radamel Falcao (Atlético Madrid/Monaco)
- Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Paris Saint-Germain)
- Robert Lewandowski (Borussia Dortmund)
- Mario Mandzukic (Bayern Munich)
- Lionel Messi (FC Barcelona)
- Neymar (FC Barcelona)
- Robin van Persie (Manchester United)
- Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)
- Luis Suarez (Liverpool)
The selection process reflects the outstanding performances of these players throughout the year, contributing to the rich tapestry of world football.
