World Cup 2014: Fifa announce Golden Ball shortlist, but will Lionel Messi beat the likes of Thomas Muller, James Rodriguez and Arjen Robben to the best player award?
Germany lead the way with four nominations while fellow finalists Argentina have three players included
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.With Germany set to face Argentina in the World Cup final, it is no surprise that the two sides dominate he Golden Ball shortlist, made up of 10 of the biggest names in world football.
Mats Hummels, Philipp Lahm, Toni Kroos and Thomas Muller all feature on the list as the German's look to win their fourth World Cup with an unbeaten record. In Argentina, they face one of the best individual players in history in the form of Lionel Messi, and the Barcelona great is also included among the 10-man shortlist.
Messi is joined by his Argentina team-mates Angel Di Maria and Javier Masherano, whose contrasting effects on Alejandro Sabella's side show how they have developed into a rather complete team - safe and reliable at the back, with a slick attacking threat when needed.
The rest of the nominees are made up of Arjen Robben of the Netherlands, James Rodriguez of Colombia and the home favourite Neymar of Brazil.
The winner may be taken from the World Cup winners, but the likelihood is that Messi will take the spoils.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments