Overview
- The three finalists were the top vote-getters in El País’ ‘América le Responde’ survey for players active in clubs across the Americas.
- Lionel Messi is shortlisted after winning the MLS title with Inter Miami as he seeks a distinction not yet in his collection.
- Racing’s Adrián ‘Maravilla’ Martínez earned his place by winning the Recopa Sudamericana, reaching the Copa Libertadores semifinals, and finishing as Torneo Clausura finalist.
- Flamengo’s Giorgian De Arrascaeta capped a standout year with Copa Libertadores and Brasileirão crowns, plus honors as the continental tournament’s best player, club top scorer, and league assist leader.
- El País will also announce coach of the year on December 31, with Filipe Luís, Gustavo Alfaro, and Gustavo Costas among the contenders, and the award’s history dates to 1986 with Carlos Tevez holding a record three wins.