Lionel Messi has chosen Mikel Arteta of Arsenal as his third pick in the 2025 FIFA The Best Men Coaches. He went around Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola altogether. By voting as captain of Argentina, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner was more interested in tactical innovation than in previous loyalty. Such work of transformation by Arteta at the Emirates was highlighted.
Unpacking Messi’s Ballot
Messi’s selections for FIFA best coach vote were revealed post the Doha ceremony on December 16, where PSG’s Luis Enrique clinched the honor. His top pick: Enrique, his current boss at Paris Saint-Germain. Second went to Barcelona’s Hansi Flick (three points), appreciating the German’s revival of the Blaugrana with La Liga glory. Arteta rounded out the podium with one point, a clap to his near-miss Premier League campaign that nearly dethroned City.
Arteta’s Rising Stock
In the case of Arteta, the approval of Lionel Messi, whom he must admire, is unadulterated. The Arsenal manager is the only nominee to have no silverware in 2025. He had collected fourth overall, beating to the level of Liverpool’s Arne Slot. The vote of Messi brings to the fore the freshness of style. This is a combination of youth and flair of high-pressure, as it reflects in the philosophy of the Argentine.
This is not some emotion, it is strategic. Messi also flourishes at age 38, and in that regard, his choices are more likely to be coaches who have a balance between experience and evolution, which is what Arteta brings to the rebuilding of the Arsenal into competitive teams.
A Snub That Stings
Guardiola takes it to the next level: Payback of City flirtation in Super League in 2023, or just a reward? However, regardless of the reason, the vote of Messi puts Arteta on the international stage, which might influence upcoming talents to come to North London.
As featured on GoonerNews.com