Globe Soccer Awards: Celebrating Football Excellence

The Globe Soccer Awards will return for its 16th annual gala in Dubai on December 28, 2025, starting at 7 p.m. GST (3 p.m. GMT / 10 a.m. ET). This event marks the culmination of the three primary football award ceremonies held annually, recognizing the standout players, coaches, and executives in the sport, all with a special focus on the Middle East.

A Brief History of the Globe Soccer Awards

Established in 2010, the Globe Soccer Awards celebrate influential figures in football while promoting the sport’s global spirit. The event has been held each December or January in Dubai, a city known for its vibrant sports culture and hospitality.

The awards were co-founded by renowned football agent Jorge Mendes, along with Italian entrepreneurs Riccardo Silva and Tommaso Bendoni. Notably, Mendes frequently takes home the title for Best Agent, a testament to his impact in the football industry.

As stated on their official website, “At the heart of Globe Soccer’s mission is a commitment to honoring all facets of the beautiful game,” emphasizing a recognition of not only players but also the many stakeholders involved—right from club chairmen to referees.

Nominees for the 2025 Awards

This year’s award ceremony features an impressive array of nominees. In the Best Men’s Player category, five finalists have been selected, mirroring many of the same names seen in prestigious tournaments like the Ballon d’Or and FIFA The Best. The Best Women’s Player category has equally notable candidates vying for recognition.

As the event approaches, keep an eye on updates from The Sporting News, which will announce winners once the gala unfolds.

Categories and Expected Winners

The 2025 Globe Soccer Awards will honor various categories, each highlighting remarkable talent and contributions to football. Here’s a closer look at some of the key categories and nominees:

Best Men’s Player

• Winner: TBD
• Nominees:
  • Ousmane Dembele (France, PSG)
  • Kylian Mbappe (France, Real Madrid)
  • Raphinha (Brazil, Barcelona)
  • Vitinha (Portugal, PSG)
  • Lamine Yamal (Spain, Barcelona)

Best Women’s Player

• Winner: TBD
• Nominees:
  • Aitana Bonmati (Spain, Barcelona)
  • Mariona Caldentey (Spain, Arsenal)
  • Melchie Dumornay (Haiti, Lyon)
  • Alexia Putellas (Spain, Barcelona)
  • Alessia Russo (England, Arsenal)

Best Coach

• Winner: TBD
• Nominees:
  • Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid/Bayer Leverkusen, Spain)
  • Mikel Arteta (Arsenal, Spain)
  • Luis Enrique (PSG, Spain)
  • Hansi Flick (Barcelona, Germany)
  • Enzo Maresca (Chelsea, Italy)

Best Emerging Player

• Winner: Desire Doue (France, PSG)
• Nominees:
  • Pau Cubarsi (Spain, Barcelona)
  • Arda Guler (Turkey, Real Madrid)
  • Joao Neves (Portugal, PSG)
  • Kenan Yildiz (Turkey, Juventus)

Many categories recognize clubs, positions, and contributions across the sport, culminating in awards for the Best Men’s Club, Best Women’s Club, and various specialized positions.

How Winners Are Chosen

The selection process for winners involves a two-step voting procedure. The initial fan poll ran from November 19 to November 27, which narrowed down the nominees to finalists. This was followed by a second public vote, where the awards jury also participated. The jury’s vote holds significant weight, counting for 80% of the total decision, while the earlier fan poll contributes 20%.

Categories influenced by this voting method include the Best Men’s Player, Best Women’s Player, and Best Club awards among others.

The Jury Behind the Awards

A 28-person jury is responsible for selecting nominees and finalists for the Globe Soccer Awards. This diverse group includes former players, agents, and football officials, ensuring a well-rounded perspective on the nominees. Notable jurors include former stars like Ian Rush, Francesco Totti, and Iker Casillas, along with executives such as Ferran Soriano of Manchester City.

With their profound insights and experiences in football, the jury plays a crucial role in honoring the game’s best talent.

As we approach the gala, anticipation builds for another memorable night celebrating football’s elite in the stunning backdrop of Dubai.