The shortlist for this year's award brings together the best footballers in the world - but can any player break Ronaldo and Messi's monopoly?
- The 2016-17 season was in many ways a breakout campaign for Coutinho. His excellent performances in Anfield established him as a star playmaker and also attracted the attention of none other than Barcelona, who moved mountains in an ultimately unsuccessful bid to take him from the Reds.
- The Gabon international has been a mainstay of Dortmund's team both in the Bundesliga and Champions League, and it is no surprise to see him included on the shortlist.