Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga has been nominated for the Globe Soccer Awards alongside five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Globe Soccer Awards are a prestigious football honor by Globe Soccer and organized by the European Association of Player’s Agents (EFAA).
Notably, Olunga was picked under the inaugural ‘Best Middle East Player’ category, one of the six Men Players’ categories.
In addition, apart from Ronaldo, the category also features stars such as Al Ahli’s Riyad Mahrez and French forward Karim Benzema.
The two came face to face during the first leg of the Asian Champions League when Olunga’s Al Duhail lost to Al Nassr.
The first ever meeting of the Globe Soccer Award was held in 2009, with the first prizes were awarded until 2010.
Furthermore, three prizes were awarded in the inaugural event whereas the number of awards and categories have been increasing since 2011.
How to vote
The award ceremony is held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, annually, bringing together the main representatives of the world of football.
You can vote for Michael Olunga through Globe Soccer Award’s online platform, which includes a total of 17 categories.
Other notable categories include the ‘Best Men’s Player’ which features stars such as Erling Haaland and Lionel Messi.
Also Read: Olunga Under Fire After Kenya, Russia Draw
Announcing the nominees on Thursday, November 24, 2023, Globe Soccer noted that the winners will be unveiled on January 19, 2024.
“The14th edition of the international football meeting takes the will take place alongside the 18th Dubai International Sports Conference in partnership with Dubai Sports Council on January 19 at the five-star Atlantis, The Palm,” stated Globe Soccer.
Olunga on form
Olunga has been prolific for his Qatari side Al Duhail, scoring seven goals in seven appearances this season.
The skipper maintained his form as he scored twice for Harambee Stars World Cup Qualifier Match against Seychelles.
Olunga scored two quick goals in a span of three minutes, opening the first with a fine finish from.
Additionally, the skipper lifted last season’s Qatari Stars league golden boot, helping them to win three titles.
Cristiano Ronaldo on the other hand, leads the pack as the favorite to win the award thanks to his stellar performances.
The Portuguese forward, widely considered one of the best soccer players ever, has 46 goals for club and country in the year 2023.
In addition, his stunning transfer to Saudi Pro League influenced the league’s global spotlight, which led to the introduction of two Middle East award categories.
Notably, the ‘Best Middle East Club’ category, an award to recognize the best Middle East Club, has also being included.
