Lionel Messi is to win 'Golden Football Award' that has eluded him for years

Lionel Messi is on the verge of adding a coveted trophy to his collection, which would elevate him to the same exclusive club of winners as Cristiano Ronaldo. Messi and Ronaldo are often considered the two greatest players of the 21st century, and their trophy achievements and statistics are frequently juxtaposed as fans discuss and analyze which legendary player holds the edge.

In October, a historic event will take place as neither player has been nominated for the annual Ballon d’Or award. This is the first time in 21 years that such a feat has occurred, despite the two players having shared the prize 13 times between them.

Messi is on way to winning yet another award 

It's worth noting that Ronaldo currently holds a trophy in his cabinet that Messi has never won. However, this would change.

The Golden Foot Award was established in 2003 to honor football legends who continue to excel at the highest level in the later stages of their careers. Eligibility for the award begins at the age of 28, and it's worth noting that Lionel Messi has never claimed this accolade.

Cristiano Ronaldo was the recipient of the award in 2020, followed by Liverpool's Mohamed Salah in the subsequent year, and Robert Lewandowski in 2022. The prestigious award has made a return after a one-year hiatus, and there is a strong belief that Messi is the leading contender to clinch the trophy that has thus far escaped him.

This year, the selection process will be different, as a panel of professionals will be responsible for choosing the winner, marking a departure from the previous public voting format. It's important to note that previous award winners will not be eligible for consideration.

A Special Honour for the Winner 

The recipient of the Golden Foot trophy will have the honor of leaving a lasting imprint by having their footprints displayed on the seafront of Monaco at The Champions Promenade. In the past, Messi has faced tough competition from players like Luka Modric and Edinson Cavani. This year, he faces a strong challenge from contenders such as Kevin De Bruyne of Manchester City and Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool for the coveted award.

2024 Golden Foot nominees: Marco Verratti (Al-Arabi), Lionel Messi (Miami FC), Neymar Jr. (Al-Hilal), Virgil Van Dijk (Liverpool), Thomas Müller (Bayern Munich), Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), and Kevin de Bruyne (Manchester City).