The incredible upward trajectory of the career of Lionel Messi has been astounding football insiders, as there is an increasing speculation that the World Cup victory in 2026 would open the path to the ninth Ballon d’Or in his career. Those who used to play with Cristiano Ronaldo are openly praising the Argentine on how he has managed to remain on the very top.
Kleberson, who is a former Manchester United middleman and a world cup champion with Brazil in 2002 has spoken admirably of the everlasting brilliance of Messi. On remarks to GOAL, the former United and MLS star player implied that the way Messi plays with Inter Miami and Argentina is evidence that age has not subdued his powers.
In 2023, Messi won his eighth Ballon d’Or, which was given after his historic run at the 2022 world cup. His entire repertoire of goal making, creativity, and leadership were on display that tournament; as Argentina won the trophy in a dramatic final. Not only numbers were the players who won the Ballon d’Or, but also those moments that marked the history of the football.
Now move to the present, Messi is still a mainstay in the world game. His competitive advantage has not been hampered by his transfer to Major League Soccer. Rather, he has turned Inter Miami into title contenders and standards of the elite that are seldom found elsewhere in the world.
As the world cup is going to be hosted in 2026, Messi has an opportunity to accomplish something special to defend the world cup title as a captain. This would go a long way to cement his Ballon d’Or argument, especially considering that this award favours players who are players of an era and not a season.
Although there are more young players leading the top leagues in Europe, the story of Messi is different. His longevity, influence and legacy still work to his advantage. When Argentina wins the trophy again, the history of football and Ballon d’Or might do the same.
