Ousmane Dembélé has been crowned FIFA The Best Men’s Player, marking a monumental achievement following a stellar season with Paris Saint-Germain. The prestigious accolade, announced at a ceremony in Doha, Qatar, solidifies his status as a dominant force in global football. This latest honour adds to an already illustrious year for the French forward, who earlier secured the coveted Ballon d’Or, underscoring a period of unparalleled success.

Dembele’s individual brilliance was intricately linked to Paris Saint-Germain’s historic campaign, which saw the club clinch an unprecedented five major trophies. For the first time in their history, PSG lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy, a long-sought-after prize that had eluded them for decades. This triumph was complemented by victories in the Ligue 1 title, the Coupe de France, the Trophée des Champions, and the Super Cup, completing a remarkable quintuple.

Throughout this extraordinary season, Dembélé proved to be an indispensable asset, consistently delivering pivotal performances in crucial matches. His attacking prowess was evident in his impressive statistics, recording 35 goals across all competitions. Beyond mere numbers, his creative vision and decisive contributions, including 16 assists, frequently broke down opposition defences and turned the tide in high-stakes encounters, particularly in the Champions League.

The journey to Champions League glory was spearheaded by Dembélé’s consistent influence, with his ability to perform under pressure setting him apart. He showcased exceptional skill and determination in the knockout stages, providing the crucial impetus that propelled PSG past formidable European rivals. His sustained excellence in Europe’s premier club competition was widely cited as a decisive factor in the voting process for the FIFA award.

Dembélé faced strong competition for the top honour, notably from Barcelona’s prodigious talent, Lamine Yamal. The 18-year-old Spanish international also enjoyed a sensational year, winning multiple titles with his club and playing a key role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph. Yamal’s exceptional debut season earned him the Kopa Trophy for the best young player, signaling his immense potential and future impact on the sport.

Despite Yamal’s meteoric rise and impressive collection of silverware, Dembélé’s profound influence on PSG’s historic Champions League victory ultimately gave him the edge. The magnitude of guiding a club to its inaugural European crown, combined with his prolific goal-scoring and playmaking contributions on such a grand stage, resonated strongly with voters. His consistent ability to deliver in the biggest moments underscored his claim to the prestigious title.

In the women’s category, Aitana Bonmatí continued her reign as the world’s premier female footballer, securing the FIFA The Best Women’s Player award. The Barcelona midfielder capped another outstanding season by leading her club to significant domestic and European titles. Her exceptional performances extended to the international stage, where she shone brightly for Spain at Euro 2025, earning the distinguished title of Player of the Tournament.

Bonmatí’s victory further cements her legacy as a generational talent, showcasing her unparalleled vision, technical skill, and leadership on the pitch. Her ability to control the midfield, dictate play, and contribute both defensively and offensively has made her an integral figure for both club and country. This successive recognition highlights her sustained excellence and profound impact on women’s football globally.

The FIFA The Best awards serve as a global benchmark, celebrating individual excellence and collective achievement in professional football. Held annually, the ceremony brings together the sport’s elite, recognizing players who have demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and impact over the preceding year. The event in Doha provided a glittering backdrop for honouring these remarkable athletes who continue to push the boundaries of the beautiful game.

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Keywords: Ousmane Dembele, FIFA The Best Men’s Player, Paris Saint-Germain, UEFA Champions League winners, Aitana Bonmatí, FIFA The Best Women’s Player, Lamine Yamal Kopa Trophy, Football awards 2024