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Lionel Messi is awarded FIFA's BEST men's player in the world title after his heroics led Argentina to a magical World Cup...finishing ahead of Karim Benzema and Kylian Mbappe

Lionel Messi has marked his resurgence to the top of football's individual honours after beating French duo Karim Benzema and Kylian Mbappe to lift the award.

Messi - previously the winner of seven Ballon d'Or's - claimed his second The Best title and first since 2019 after being commended his stunning exploits with Argentina.

The 35-year-old was sensational as he masterminded Argentina to the World Cup crown, scoring seven goals and becoming the first player to score in every game at the competition.

Meanwhile, Messi's national team-mate and Aston Villa shot-stopper Emiliano Martinez claimed FIFA's 'The Best' goalkeeper prize to be crowned the world's best.