nigeriasport.ng

Diego Simeone Backs Lionel Messi for 2026 Ballon d’Or Over Yamal and Mbappe

Atletico Madrid's manager Diego Simeone has expressed strong support for Lionel Messi to claim the 2026 Ballon d’Or, overlooking rising stars like Barcelona's Lamine Yamal and Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe. Despite Messi’s age of 39, Simeone believes his recent World Cup performance puts him ahead in a highly competitive field.

Simeone Dismisses Other Contenders

Before Atletico's match against Osasuna, Simeone was clear about his choice. When asked who deserves football's most prestigious individual award, he quickly named Messi. This stance comes even though younger players such as Yamal and Mbappe have gained significant attention lately.

"Messi, without a doubt," Simeone told reporters. "After the World Cup he had, at the age he is, no doubt at all. Messi."

The Argentine coach’s main argument is Messi’s leadership in guiding Argentina to the 2026 World Cup final, where they were narrowly defeated by Spain. For Simeone, maintaining such a high level of play at 39 outshines claims made by other contenders including Rodri, Harry Kane, or Ousmane Dembele.

Other Players Voice Their Ballon d'Or Ambitions

This conversation heated up after Lamine Yamal confidently stated he and Kylian Mbappe are the two best players worldwide. Yamal, who helped Barcelona win La Liga, the Spanish Super Cup, and the World Cup with Spain, believes he should be favored for the award over Mbappe.

Meanwhile, the reigning champion Ousmane Dembele has declared his intention to keep the trophy, saying:

"It is going to stay in the hands of a PSG player. I’m a competitor, so it’s my goal to win it again."

Messi’s 2026 nomination marks his 17th time on the Ballon d’Or shortlist, just one shy of Cristiano Ronaldo’s record of 18. He last won the prize in 2023, marking his eighth victory.

London to Host Historic 2026 Ballon d’Or Ceremony

The 2026 event will be the 70th edition of the award and is set for October 26 in London. This marks the first time the ceremony moves from Paris since its inception. The location honors Sir Stanley Matthews, winner of the inaugural award in 1956.

  • Event: 70th Ballon d’Or Ceremony
  • Date: October 26, 2026
  • Location: London
  • Historical Note: First ceremony outside Paris, tribute to Sir Stanley Matthews

Related Articles