With less than two weeks until the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony, many players are seen as favorites, but Lionel Messi’s choice stands out as unexpected.
The Argentina captain has shared his pick for the award, surprising many.
The ceremony is set for October 28, featuring 30 nominees, yet only one will claim the prize soon. Various sources suggest three frontrunners: Vinicius Jr., Rodri, and Dani Carvajal, with Jude Bellingham also in the mix. Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland, however, seem to be fading from the conversation.
Interestingly, Messi’s choice does not include any of these players. Instead, he supports a teammate and friend from the national team, Lautaro Martinez, who has had a stellar season with Inter Milan and played a key role in winning the Copa America, scoring in the final.
Messi believes Martinez deserves the Ballon d’Or, expressing hope that recognition will come for him, even if not this year.
“He had an outstanding year, scoring in the final and finishing as the top scorer of the Copa America. He deserves the Ballon d’Or more than anyone. I hope Martinez wins it; he deserves it more than anyone. If it doesn’t happen now, I’m sure the recognition will come later,” Messi stated.
