Football royalty gathered under the Costa Smeralda sky for the inaugural KAFD Globe Soccer Europe Awards, held at Hotel Cala di Volpe in Sardinia. The event celebrated football excellence, with notable names such as Kylian Mbappé, Xabi Alonso, and Manchester City receiving honors. Italy stood out, earning six of the fourteen awards presented.
One of the highlights of the night was Atalanta winning the Revelation Award for their impressive performance in the UEFA Europa League Final, where they ended a 61-year trophy drought by defeating Bayer Leverkusen. Ademola Lookman’s hat trick in the final secured the victory, marking a historic moment for the club and coach Gian Piero Gasperini.
Manchester City and FC Barcelona were recognized as the Best Men’s Club and Best Women’s Club, respectively. Guardiola’s side secured a fourth consecutive Premier League title, while Barça Femení conquered Liga F and the UEFA Champions League. The awards were a testament to the clubs’ achievements and dominance in their respective leagues.
Kylian Mbappé was named the Best Men’s Player of the Year, beating out other notable contenders. The PSG forward’s impressive performances earned him the accolade, despite not winning major international trophies. Mbappé expressed his gratitude for the recognition and his commitment to continue working hard in his football career.
Legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon received the Player Career Award for his remarkable contributions to the sport. Buffon, the most-capped Italian player ever, expressed his gratitude for the award and shared his plans to transition into coaching in the future. The Italian icon’s impact on the game was evident as he was honored for his illustrious career.
The Comeback Award went to Como 1907 for their remarkable journey from Serie D to securing promotion to Serie A for the first time in 21 years. The club’s achievement captured the imagination of fans worldwide and was recognized as a significant comeback story in Italian football. Co-managers Osian Roberts and Cesc Fàbregas were commended for their role in Como’s success.
The awards ceremony also paid tribute to football legends such as Gigi Riva and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, who received Special Career Awards. Riva, a prolific striker for Cagliari and Italy, was remembered for his exceptional career and contribution to the sport. Xabi Alonso was honored as the Best Coach for leading Bayer Leverkusen to a historic Bundesliga title, showcasing his coaching prowess on the pitch. Overall, the awards celebrated football excellence across various categories and recognized the achievements of players, coaches, and clubs in Europe.
