There were few surprises as FIFA names the final list of three nominees for the best male and female footballers ahead of the Ballon d’Or awards this year.

Lionel Messi is a shoe-in to pick up the his eighth victory in the men’s category after his heroics in helping Argentina to the World Cup title in Qatar late last year.

It seems inconceivable he won’t win, even as he comes up against another star from that tournament, France’s Kylian Mbappe. Current holder Karim Benzema is surely there to just make up the numbers.

The women’s category is a little tighter with Beth Mead (England/Arsenal), Alex Morgan (USA/Orlando Pride/San Diego Wave) and Alexia Putellas (Spain/FC Barcelona) all nominated though the latter is likely the favourite to win for a second year in a row.

The winners are to be announced in October.