Messi Has 'No Doubt' Over Ballon D'Or Winner
31 May, 2022
Paris Saint-Germain superstar Lionel Messi has said he has "no doubt" over who the 2022 Ballon d'Or winner will be.
Although it once appeared as if the likes of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane were among those gunning for the prestigious individual accolade, many believe Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema should already have his name engraved on the prize.
The Frenchman has enjoyed a spectacular 2021/22 campaign for Los Blancos, having ended the term on 59 goal contributions in 46 games across all competitions, and with the LaLiga and UEFA Champions League trophies. After securing the 2021/22 Pichichi Trophy – the accolade given to the highest scorer in Spain's top division every season – Benzema ended the European campaign with 15 strikes, 10 of which came in the knockout rounds of the competition.
This has led seven-time winner Messi to see his ex-rival as the only player deserving of this year's Ballon d'Or.
"There is no doubt," he told TyC Sports.
"Benzema had a sensational year and ended up winning the Champions League, being important in every game. I have no doubts."
The Ballon d'Or will be handed out in October following France Football's decision to adjust the criteria for the prize, which sees the award now run in line with the regular European season.
Source: www.soccerladuma.co.za
TAG(s):