Lionel Messi, the iconic forward for Paris Saint-Germain and Argentina, has been named the South American Player of the Year for 2022 by the International Federation of Football History and Statistics, or IFFHS. The organization announced the honor on its official platforms, recognizing Messi for his standout performances across the calendar year.
Messi added another milestone to a career already filled with accolades when IFFHS also crowned him the best player in the world for 2022. At 35, the football great continued to influence games, helping his club secure domestic silverware in France and contributing to a historic World Cup campaign with the Argentina national team in Qatar that culminated in a championship win for his country.
The year 2022 produced a symbolic South American XI that highlighted the continent’s wealth of talent. In goal, Emiliano Martínez from Argentina, who plies his trade with Aston Villa, was selected as the standout goalkeeper. The midfield lineup featured Rodrigo De Paul representing Argentina alongside Enzo Fernández, who has links to River Plate and Benfica, and Casemiro, a seasoned Brazilian playmaker who has blended duties for Real Madrid and Manchester United. The attacking midfield and forward line included Neymar from Brazil, a pivotal creator for Paris Saint-Germain, and Lionel Messi anchored the forward unit with Argentina. Joining him were Julian Álvarez from Argentina, whose club career has connected River Plate and Manchester City, and Vinícius Júnior of Brazil, an influential winger for Real Madrid.
Beyond the field, discussions circulated about Messi’s broader influence on Argentine football and the potential future roles he could inhabit within the sport. Observers and fans alike noted the ongoing impact of his leadership and experience in shaping the national team’s strategies as new generations of players rose through the ranks. While speculation about any post-playing roles remains part of the broader conversation, the focus remained on Messi’s exemplary performances and his enduring status as a central figure in South American football. The year’s events continued to reinforce the perception of Messi as a global ambassador for the sport, with his achievements resonating across clubs, leagues, and national teams. The broader football community recognized his sustained excellence and continued to study his influence on tactical play, mentoring younger teammates, and the cultural significance of his successes in the region.