FIFA has also retained German Birgit Prinz and Brazilian Cristiane and Marta for the Women’s award. The prizes are set to be announced on December 17th.

The poll is made by a list of national team coaches and captains.

Kaka is also leading the race for this year’s Golden Ball and he hopes to follow in the footsteps of his fellow countrymen Ronaldo, Ronaldinho and Rivaldo who won both awards in the same year.

The 25-year old forward had an excellent season leading AC Milan to the UEFA Champions League title scoring 10 goals winning both titles the Golden boot and the best player Award.

Messi helped Argentina reach the Copa America final while Ronaldo was instrumental in Manchester United’s Premiership winning campaign.