The Best FIFA Men's Player 2019: Top 5 contenders for the award - August 2019

#1 Lionel Messi (Argentina, Barcelona)

Lionel Messi still is the favorite to life the award this year

Lionel Messi continues to lead the race as the awards night draws closer. The Argentine showed a rare rebellious side to his character in the 2019 Copa America, criticizing the authorities and defending his national team like a true leader.

Unfortunately, it earned him a 3-match ban and also a hefty fine, but not before Messi's voice had traversed the entire span of the globe and found eager ears at unusual places.

The Barcelona skipper also inspired his team to the La Liga title and even helped the Catalans reach the final of the Copa del Rey, only to be defeated by Valencia.

In the Champions League, Messi and co. were undone by a fiery Liverpool side in the semi-finals, in one of the games of the tournament. Despite managing only one Silverware this season, Lionel Messi, however, still deserves the Best FIFA Men's Player of the year award and it is easy to see why.

The Argentina skipper did not have have the best of impacts in the Copa America, as his nation finished third in the tournament. In Barcelona colors though, Messi was outstanding once again last season, winning the La Liga Golden Boot, the European Golden Shoe, while also finishing as the top scorer of the Champions League.

Individually, there was no player close to him in the entire world and at the start of August, Messi continues to be the number one contender for the award.