The Best Footballer in Asia 2017 awards recognize 23 nominees, including players like Son Heung-min, Aaron Mooy, and Tomi Juric. The awards emphasize performances in international arenas, with Japan, Iran, and Saudi Arabia receiving the most nominations. Key players such as Sardar Azmoun and Nawaf Al-Abed highlight the talent across the continent, reflecting the growth of Asian football globally.
The Titan Sport Best Footballer in Asia 2017 awards features a competitive lineup including prominent players like Son Heung-min, Aaron Mooy, and Tomi Juric. A total of 23 nominees are in the running for this prestigious title, akin to France Football’s Ballon d’Or, signifying remarkable performance on an international level. Recognition at local tournaments remains significant, but superior achievements in the AFC Champions League and World Cup qualifiers often take precedence.
Japan, Iran, and Saudi Arabia lead the nominations, reflecting their success in regional football. Japan notably won the Asian Champions League and qualified for the 2018 World Cup, garnering five spots on the list. Key nominees from Japan include Shusaku Nishikawa, Yuki Abe, and Tomoaki Makino from Urawa Red Diamonds, alongside European players Maya Yoshida and Yuto Nagatomo.
Iran has established itself as a powerhouse, being the best Asian national team in 2017 and the second country after Brazil to secure World Cup qualification. Sardar Azmoun has emerged as a leading scorer, alongside fellow nominees Reza Ghoochannejhad and Mehdi Taremi. These players have contributed significantly to their club and national teams, showcasing a blend of defensive solidarity and attacking flair.
Saudi Arabia’s Nawaf Al-Abed excelled as a midfield playmaker, finishing as a joint-top scorer in World Cup qualifiers. His performance with Al Hilal, along with veteran defender Osama Hawsawi, highlights the nation’s promising football talent. Meanwhile, South Korea’s Son Heung-min, having a standout season with Tottenham Hotspur, is again in contention for the award, supported by Kwon Chang-hoon.
Australia’s representation includes Aaron Mooy, pivotal in Huddersfield’s Premier League journey, and Tomi Juric, impressing in Switzerland. Their efforts aided Australia in World Cup qualification despite challenging playoffs. In the Middle East, Omar Khribin stood out in Syrian qualification with his scoring prowess, while in Chinese football, Wu Lei has been recognized for his consistent performance, alongside a few Brazilian players making both local and international impacts.
The complete list of nominees runs across various Asian countries, featuring stellar talents and established players who have left significant marks in their clubs and nations. These contenders not only exemplify excellence in football but also symbolize the growing competitive nature of Asian football on the world stage.
Original Source: foxsports.com.au
