FIFA and France Football magazine have provided a list of 23 nominees for the FIFA Ballon d’Or 2013. The 23 contenders for the title all evolve in Europe.

Wales winger Gareth Bale joins Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo among the leading contenders for the prestigious award.

Bale became the world’s most expensive player when he joined Real Madrid from Tottenham for 100 Million Euros (£85.3m) in September after a 26-goal haul for Spurs.

But he faces tough competition for the prize from his Madrid team-mate Ronaldo – winner in 2008 – and Barcelona forward Messi, who has won the award for the last four years.