During the Golden Ball award ceremony, superstar Lionel Messi was the winner and he thanked everyone.
On the morning of October 31, Lionel Messi won the Golden Ball for the 8th time in his career. In the Top 5 QBV, Kylian Mbappe ranked 3rd, while Man City contributed 3 representatives: Erling Haaland (2), Kevin de Bruyne (4) and Rodri (5).
Sharing about this honor, Messi thanked legendary Diego Maradona and the members of the Argentina national team: “No matter where you are, this title is for you. Happy 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡day, Diego.
This is also an achievement for the entire Argentina team. I would like to thank all the players, coaching staff and all Argentine people. I’m very proud of myself for not giving up. The World Cup is the only title I’m missing in my career.”
Lionel Messi spoke at the Golden Ball award ceremony
Lionel Messi shared about Erling Haaland, the player who also had a great season with the treble with Man City: “As I said, I feel he completely deserves it. Erling has won the Premier League, Champions League and is the top scorer of the tournaments. This title could have been awarded to him today, and I am sure next year he will win it.”
Talking about Barcelona Club: “That is the team of my life, there is no doubt that they are candidates to win the Champions League this season. I still follow Barcelona, the team I love that I have played for all my life. Barcelona has many young and experienced players, they will come back strongly after the defeat at El Clasico. Barcelona has everything to win the Champions League, but they should not put too much pressure on themselves.”
On celebrating the title at Parc des Princes: “I don’t think it’s a good idea. The people of Paris won’t want me to win the Ballon d’Or. I will celebrate this with my teammates and the people of Argentina.
“I did not continue to stay in Paris for various reasons, but I always welcomed my time there with positivity. I was very happy at Partis, my 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren also love this city. They want to continue to stay in France, go to school and play with friends there.
On the sporting front, things weren’t really as I hoped, but I have good memories in Paris.”
Award categories are awarded
Men’s Golden Ball: Lionel Messi
Women’s Golden Ball: Aitana Bonmati
Men’s Football Club of the Year Award: Man City
Women’s Football Club of the Year: Barcelona
Gerd Muller Award – Best striker: Erling Haaland
Kopa Award – Best Young Player: Jude Bellingham
Yashin Award – Best Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martinez
The Socrates Award – Best Social Initiative: Vinicius Junior
