Giorgian De Arrascaeta finished a consecratory year at the very top. After winning the Copa Libertadores and the Brasileirão with Flamengo, the playmaker was crowned as the best South American footballer who plays on the continent in the traditional poll organized by the newspaper El País de Uruguay, which has spent four decades choosing the "King of America".
The result was categorical: De Arrascaeta swept with 67.8% of the votes, far surpassing Lionel Messi (14.8%) and Adrián "Maravilla" Martínez (5%), who completed the podium. Meanwhile, in this edition of the vote, number 40, it reached a record participation with 264 journalists, including 33 Argentines.
The Uruguayan's season backs him. At club level, in addition to the multiple collective titles with Mengão, he was chosen as the best player in the Libertadores, he was top scorer and main assist provider for Mengão at the domestic level, while with his national team he secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
His consecration also meant a milestone for Uruguayan football. Uruguay once again had a King of America after ten years, when Carlos Sánchez had achieved it while shining at River.
Meanwhile, Filipe Luís prevailed as best coach for his work at Flamengo with 72% of the votes, surpassing Argentines Gustavo Alfaro (Paraguay national team; 8.7%) and Gustavo Costas (Racing, 5.6%),
The recognition also included the selection of the ideal eleven of the continent, with Albiceleste presence. The voted line-up was:
- Goalkeeper: Agustín Rossi
- Defenders: Danilo, Gustavo Gómez and Leo Pereira
- Midfielders: Guillermo Varela, Santiago Sosa, Erick Pulgar and Giorgian De Arrascaeta
- Forwards: Juan Manuel López, Adrián Martínez and Lionel Messi.
- Head coach: Filipe Luís
Regarding women's football, the "Queen of America" was Brazilian Gabi Zanotti. The Corinthians midfielder was chosen by 34% of the voters, followed by her compatriot Marta Vieira da Silva (Orlando Pride; 13%) and Paraguayan Claudia Martínez (Olimpia; 9%).
All the winners by each league
Argentina
- Best player: Santiago Sosa
- Best head coach: Eduardo Domínguez
- Best club: Racing
Brazil
