Lionel Messi, Barcelona star, has been crowned World Soccer’s player of the year during the World Soccer’s January edition published on Friday, December 27.
The Argentine star was handed the huge recognition following his stellar performance that led the Catalans to domestic win last season.
Messi, who won this year’s Ballon d’Or award for the sixth time record earlier December, beat Liverpool’s Vigil van Dijk and his arch rival Cristiano Ronaldo to the individual honour.
The Argentine beat van Dijk to the award with eleven votes, and has now won the World Soccer Award for five time record.
He won the award in 2009, 2011, 2012, 2015 and 2019, matching him with Cristiano Ronaldo who came fourth in this year’s voting.
According to Forbes citing World Soccer, Liverpool were also named the team of the year following their breakthrough at the European stage.
The European champion won Champions League last season and were runners-up behind Manchester City in the Premier League.
The Reds have complemented their last season effort with ruthless dominance, siting atop the EPL log ahead of Leicester City and English champions.
Liverpool beat Man City and Ajax to the landmark with 60 votes having won UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup in 2019.
Meanwhile, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp was named the coach of the year by the respected publication.
The German tactician polled 67 votes–2 votes ahead of Man City boss Pep Guardiola to reach the landmark.