Best Football Player 2019: The Definitive Answer

Alright guys, let's settle a debate that's probably still raging in sports bars and online forums: who really was the best football player in 2019? It was an epic year filled with incredible performances, title wins, and individual brilliance. So, diving into the specifics, let's explore the candidates and make a data-driven, slightly subjective, but ultimately compelling case.

The Usual Suspects: Lionel Messi and Virgil van Dijk

When we talk about the best, it's almost impossible not to start with Lionel Messi. In 2019, Messi continued to defy logic and physics, scoring goals that seemed to bend reality. His dribbling was as mesmerizing as ever, and his playmaking ability remained unmatched. Statistically, he was a monster. Messi finished the year with an insane number of goals and assists, leading Barcelona to another La Liga title. He consistently demonstrated why many consider him the greatest of all time. His vision on the field allowed him to create opportunities out of nothing, threading passes that defenders simply couldn't anticipate. Beyond the stats, it was the sheer artistry of his play that captivated audiences worldwide. His ability to change direction in an instant, leaving defenders flat-footed, was a constant source of amazement. Messi's impact extended beyond scoring; his presence on the field elevated the performance of his teammates, creating a synergy that made Barcelona a formidable force. However, 2019 wasn't without its disappointments for Messi, particularly in the Champions League, where Barcelona suffered a stunning defeat against Liverpool. This setback raised questions about whether individual brilliance could always compensate for team shortcomings. Yet, despite these challenges, Messi's individual brilliance shone brightly, making him a top contender for the title of the best player in 2019.

Then there's Virgil van Dijk. The towering Dutch defender transformed Liverpool's defense into an impenetrable wall. His presence brought a sense of calm and authority to the backline, and his leadership was instrumental in Liverpool's Champions League triumph. Van Dijk's ability to read the game, anticipate attacks, and make crucial interceptions was unparalleled. He wasn't just a defender; he was a defensive strategist, organizing the team and ensuring everyone was in the right position. His aerial prowess made him a threat in both boxes, and his calmness under pressure inspired confidence throughout the team. Van Dijk's impact on Liverpool was immediate and transformative. Before his arrival, Liverpool's defense was often shaky and prone to errors. With Van Dijk at the helm, the defense became a fortress, allowing the team's attacking talents to flourish. His partnership with goalkeeper Alisson Becker further solidified Liverpool's defensive strength, creating a formidable barrier that opponents struggled to break down. Van Dijk's performances in the Champions League were particularly noteworthy, as he consistently shut down some of the world's best attackers. His commanding presence and unwavering focus made him a nightmare for opposing teams, and his contributions were vital to Liverpool's success. While attackers often steal the spotlight, Van Dijk's exceptional defensive skills and leadership qualities made him a strong contender for the title of the best player in 2019, challenging the dominance of attacking players like Messi.

The Case for Messi: Goals, Goals, Goals!

Let's be real, the man scores goals. And not just tap-ins; we're talking about bending free-kicks into the top corner, weaving through entire defenses, and making it look effortless. His goal-scoring record in 2019 was simply phenomenal. You just can't ignore that kind of impact. Messi's goals weren't just about quantity; they were about quality. He had a knack for scoring crucial goals in big games, often turning the tide of matches with a moment of brilliance. His ability to score from seemingly impossible angles and distances set him apart from other players, and his consistency in finding the back of the net was truly remarkable. Beyond scoring, Messi also contributed significantly to Barcelona's attack through his assists. His vision and passing ability allowed him to create scoring opportunities for his teammates, making him a complete offensive threat. His link-up play with players like Luis Suárez and Antoine Griezmann was a joy to watch, as they combined seamlessly to unlock defenses. Messi's impact on Barcelona's attack was undeniable, and his contributions were vital to their success in La Liga and other competitions. While some may argue that Messi's achievements were limited to domestic competitions, his individual brilliance cannot be denied. His goal-scoring record, playmaking ability, and overall impact on the game make him a strong contender for the title of the best player in 2019.

The Case for Van Dijk: The Defensive Rock

Football isn't just about scoring; it's about preventing goals too. Van Dijk's impact on Liverpool's defense was transformative. He brought stability, leadership, and an almost unbeatable presence to the backline. Liverpool's defensive record with Van Dijk in the team speaks for itself. Before Van Dijk's arrival, Liverpool's defense was often criticized for its inconsistencies and vulnerability. With Van Dijk at the heart of the defense, Liverpool became a defensive powerhouse, conceding fewer goals and maintaining a higher number of clean sheets. His ability to read the game, anticipate attacks, and make crucial interceptions made him a nightmare for opposing attackers. Van Dijk's aerial presence was also a major asset, as he dominated in the air and cleared countless crosses and long balls. His leadership qualities were equally important, as he organized the defense and ensured that everyone was in the right position. Van Dijk's impact extended beyond his individual performances; he also improved the performances of his teammates. His presence inspired confidence throughout the team, and his leadership helped to create a strong defensive unit. While attackers often receive more attention, Van Dijk's contributions to Liverpool's success cannot be overstated. His defensive prowess, leadership qualities, and overall impact on the team make him a strong contender for the title of the best player in 2019.

Other Contenders: The Supporting Cast

While Messi and Van Dijk were the frontrunners, let's not forget other players who had stellar years. Think about Cristiano Ronaldo, still banging in goals for Juventus; Sadio Mané, who was electric for Liverpool; and even players like Kevin De Bruyne, orchestrating Manchester City's attacks. They all had moments of brilliance. Each of these players brought unique qualities to their respective teams, contributing to their success in various competitions. Ronaldo's goal-scoring record continued to defy age, as he consistently found the back of the net for Juventus. Mané's pace, skill, and finishing ability made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. De Bruyne's vision, passing range, and creativity made him one of the best playmakers in the world. While these players may not have reached the same level of individual recognition as Messi and Van Dijk, their contributions were vital to their teams' success. Their performances added depth and excitement to the footballing landscape in 2019, making it a year to remember.

The Verdict: Drumroll Please...

Okay, so who was the best? It’s tough, but based on individual brilliance combined with team success, Lionel Messi edges it. While Van Dijk's impact was undeniable, Messi's sheer goal-scoring ability and overall influence on Barcelona's attack were just too much to ignore. He was a constant source of inspiration and creativity, and his performances often defied logic. Messi's ability to score goals, create chances, and control the game made him a unique and irreplaceable asset for Barcelona. While Van Dijk transformed Liverpool's defense, Messi's offensive contributions were simply unmatched. His goals, assists, and overall impact on the game make him the deserving winner of the title of the best player in 2019. However, it's important to acknowledge the contributions of other players like Van Dijk, Ronaldo, Mané, and De Bruyne, who all had exceptional years. Ultimately, the debate over who was the best player in 2019 is a matter of opinion, but Messi's individual brilliance and overall impact on the game make him a strong contender for the title.