Brazilian star Kaka and European giants FC Barcelona gain spotlight at world awards.


Fédération International de Footballeurs Professionels (FIFPro) have announced the results after their 57,500 members voted for their favourites from the 2006-07 season. AC Milan star Ricardo Kaka was voted as the best player for the season, while FC Barcelona players were nominated more than any other team to fill in first place positions, with top-rated player Lionel Messi gaining strong recognition. FC Barcelona star, Ronaldinho won the award last year. Kaka, in his acceptance speech, said:

I am humbled to receive such an honour. To follow my good friend and such a great player as Ronaldinho makes this a very special award for me. To be recognized by my fellow professional players worldwide coming from over 50,000 players is amazing. I would like to thank my teammates and coaches and everyone involved at Milan and the national team, as well as my family and friends for their support. Thank you also to FIFPro for this award and for your work in protecting the interests and welfare of players around the world.

The FIFPro also chose it’s team of the year, with FC Barcelona players having the most number of representations in the world first XI. Carles Puyol, Lionel Messi and Ronaldinho all found places in the team, with Ronaldinho coming as an regular face in the world selection. Gianluigi Buffon retained his place as the favourite keeper, while Fabio Cannavaro was also named in the team just like he was named last year. The full squad includes:


Buffon (Juventus)

Terry (Chelsea), Cannavaro (Real Madrid), Puyol (FC Barcelona), Nesta (Milan)
Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United), Gerrard (Liverpool), Kaká (Milan), Messi (FC Barcelona)

Drogba (Chelsea), Ronaldinho (FC Barcelona).