Mbappe still thinks he’s the best, the new lesson Messi teaches him

Lionel Messi, Robert Lewandowski and Mohamed Salah have all been shortlisted for the star-studded Best FIFA Men's Player of the Year award. The trio beat off competition from the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappe and Karim Benzema to stand a chance of picking up the trophy on January 17. But with the award based on performances within a specific time period, Messi could have an advantage.

The shortlist voting was conducted by national team coaches and captains, specialist media and football fans making their choices online. Messi has taken home the gong on no less than six occasions, while Lewandowski emerged triumphant last year ahead of the PSG star and Cristiano Ronaldo. FIFA will officially unveil the winner of the award in an online ceremony in Zurich. Liverpool ace Salah is arguably in the form of his career, and has been rewarded for another dazzling season.

More related stories:

The challenge Neymar makes to Messi and Mbappe before the World Cup

Brazilian legend rates Messi and Neymar, chooses a surprise winner

He will hope to defend his title despite fierce competition from Messi, who, despite a year of upheaval, still managed jaw-dropping heroics in front of goal. Despite leaving his boyhood club Barcelona in emotional fashion before heading to PSG, Messi lifted the Copa America - his first senior trophy with Argentina. In a shock twist, Manchester United talisman Ronaldo failed to make the cut. For only the second time, the 36-year-old will not be in contention to take home the prestigious piece of silverware.

He also missed out in 2010. Surprisingly, no player from Italy's European Championship-winning side or the Chelsea squad which lifted the Champions League made the shortlist. The voting was conducted by national team coaches and captains, specialist media and football fans making their choices online. They chose from a list of players, which was put forward by FIFA-appointed panels. Among those also missing out are Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe and Karim Benzema,