Lionel Messi declared that his Argentina teammate Lautaro Martinez deserved to win the Ballon d'Or award more than anyone else after enjoying an outstanding year for both club and national team. The eight-time winner insisted that the Inter Milan striker had a far better season than Spain midfielder Rodri, who ultimately took home the award in Paris.
Trophies and Goals for Club and Country
Messi praised Martinez for finishing as top scorer in Copa America while scoring the winning goal in the final to secure another major international trophy for Argentina. The Inter Milan captain also led his club to the Italian Serie A championship by scoring twenty-four league goals, proving his quality as one of the best strikers.
Rejection of Voting Outcome
Although Manchester City star Rodri won the trophy after winning the European Championship with Spain, Messi remains firm that Martinez achieved more over the full season. Former players and coaches agreed with Messi that Martinez deserved far more recognition from voters after delivering crucial goals in the biggest matches of the year.
