3 players who deserved to be on FIFA's 'Player of the Year' Shortlist

#2 Antoine Griezmann

Griezmann won the FIFA World Cup 2018 with France

Antoine Griezmann scored four goals in the FIFA World Cup 2018 as France became World Champions. He even scored in the World Cup Finals against Croatia. He also had 2 assists in the tournament. In the 2017/18 season, he scored 29 goals from 49 appearances for Athletico Madrid, winning the Europa League. He was also adjudged the UEFA Europa League Player of the season. Yet, Griezmann could not make it to the final three shortlist and while it has come as a surprise to many people, the player himself is not too impressed either.

In an interview given to L’Equipe, Griezmann said he was surprised that he had not made the shortlist. He further says that it is a surprise that despite winning the FIFA World Cup, there are no French players in the final three.

“It’s weird and a pity” he says, “This is a trophy that’s awarded by FIFA, right? We won a World Cup and there’s no Frenchman on the shortlist. That’s the choice, but it’s surprising.”

However, Griezmann feels that he is well placed to win the Ballon d’Or this year. Maybe, getting in at least the final three there can ease some of his pain.