4 Players: Arab Stars Shine in FIFA's 'The Best 2024' Shortlists

For the first time in Arab football history, six players from regional leagues have been named as preliminary nominees for FIFA's 'The Best 2024' awards. The nominees, announced today, Friday, by the International Federation of Football Associations (FIFA), showcase outstanding performances in different categories, including the highly esteemed FIFA Best XI.

Notable players on the list include Portuguese Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr, Saudi Arabia), Gabonese striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Al Qadisiyah, Saudi Arabia), Moroccan striker Soufiane Rahimi (Al Ain, UAE) and Qatari Akram Afif (Al Sadd). Rahimi’s outstanding performances at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris and his decisive contribution to Al Ain’s AFC Champions League victory in particular caught the world’s attention.

Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou (Al Hilal) also made the list for best goalkeeper, having clinched a domestic treble with his club while being named the best keeper in Saudi Arabia and Africa.

Additionally, Moroccan defender Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain) continues to impress as one of the world's best right-backs. His leadership and consistent performances with Paris Saint-Germain and the Moroccan national team confirm his candidacy.

This year, FIFA has implemented a new voting mechanism that gives fans the same voice as a panel of experts when choosing the best 11 players. Arab fans are excited about the prospect of their stars being honoured on a global scale as the voting process progresses.