Lionel Messi picks his top Contender for Ballon d'Or 2024

Lionel Messi, the former forward for Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona icon, also the current holder of the Ballon d’Or, has shared his thoughts on who he believes should take home the prestigious award this month.

Neither Bellingham nor Vinicius secured additional silverware over the summer to strengthen their bids for the award. Bellingham did reach the UEFA Euro 2024 final, showcasing his talent, while Brazil's early exit from the knockout stage hindered Vinicius's chances.

Mr Ballon d'Or picks his Top Contender for the Title in 2024

Consequently, Messi has chosen a different candidate for the award: not his former PSG teammate Kylian Mbappé, but Lautaro Martinez. As a key player on the Argentine national team and a standout at Inter Milan, Martinez is well-positioned for consideration.

While there is no definitive frontrunner for this year's Ballon d’Or, there is a strong debate surrounding Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham, especially following Real Madrid's victories in the UEFA Champions League and La Liga titles last season.

Messi has explained his choice of Lautaro Martinez as his top contender for the Ballon d'Or. He highlighted Martinez's exceptional year, during which he scored in the Copa America finals and emerged as the tournament's top scorer. Messi expresses his hope that his fellow countryman will win the prestigious award, which he himself has claimed a record eight times. He is confident that Lautaro will eventually secure a Ballon d'Or, even if this year isn’t his moment.

“He had a spectacular year, scored a goal in the final and was top scorer in the Copa América,” Messi said (h/t RMC Sport).

“He deserves the Ballon d’Or more than anyone. I hope that (Lautaro) Martinez wins the Ballon d’Or… I hope he will be rewarded. He is a boy that I appreciate a lot. He has been with us since the beginning. I hope he can get it. If not now, it will be later. He still has a great future.” Messi added.