Who is the World's Best? Candidate 7

Lionel Messi: As far as talent goes, the 5'7'' Messi can be blamed for hogging it all. At just 21 years old, Messi has shown no signs of slowing down, despite being on the world stage for three solid years at Barcelona. After an injury-filled season, Messi showed his dominance with strong performances in La Liga and CL when he was cleared to play. Another individual milestone this superstar received was the MVP award of the Olympics in Beijing this summer. His lightning pace, unbelievable ball control, sublime quickness, and superior intelligence have transformed this youngster into one of the best footballers in the world, with most labeling him as the "Next Maradona". As a winger, when he combines with players like Iniesta and Xavi at Barcelona or Riquelme with Argentina, Messi is unstoppable no matter where he is on the pitch. As a playmaker, a new role in which Messi has adopted in the Olympics and in recent Barcelona games, he clearly shows he is capable of playing any offensive position on the field (Barcelona vs. Shaktar); thus, making him more vital to any team he plays on. Messi is known to produce moments of brilliance in either one-yard of space or 10; with his feinting and quickness, it makes no difference.

Lionel Messi's performances have football fanatics reminiscing Maradona's magical moments in the 80's/early 90's. Lately, however, even Maradona, himself, has criticized Messi, and these criticisms, along with the Barcelona faithful's disappointment in some of his play (vs. Sporting Lisbon), have taken their toll on Messi's play. Often called individualistic and a poor finisher, Messi's confidence has seemed to have taken a blow with some "below-par performances" and lack of energy in some games, though glimpses of his genius are still spotted. Once Messi learns he can trust his teammates a little more, he will be the best player in recent times. Undoubtedly, Argentina's lack of competition (either Copa America, World Cup, or Intercontinental Cup) will hurt Messi's chances of winning the Players of the Year award.