The Puzzling Controversy Surrounding the Ballon d'Or 2023

I find it strange that among people who understand football, there are so many who become heated after the presentation of the Ballon d'Or. Seriously, guys?

The Year of Argentina's Victory at the World Cup

In the year of Argentina's victory in the World Cup, a triumph primarily influenced by one individual player, it was so apparent that it was clear after Montiel's strike - Messi would claim the Ballon d'Or. No doubt about it.

Qatar - No Match for Messi

In Qatar, no one could even come close to Messi regarding their influence on their team's performance. One can rightfully admire Martinez's saves and Alvarez's contributions in attack. Still, it was Messi who carried the national team to the title. Many have probably already forgotten that. Revisit the World Cup matches if that's the case; refresh your memory.

Who Else, If Not Messi?

And let's approach this by elimination. Who, if not Messi? Mbappe? Messi outperformed him in the final. Haaland? They watched the World Cup on TV, and in the Champions League final, which Inter could have won, they were absent. It doesn't even seem serious to talk about this.

A Few Intriguing Statistics from WhoScored

Here are some interesting numbers from the leading statistics portal, WhoScored:

1) 28 goals.

2) 23 assists.

3) The best player in the top 5 European leagues for the 2022-2023 season - average rating of 8.28.

4) The best player in the 2022 World Cup based on average ratings - 8.25.

5) The player of the season with the most Best Player of the Match awards - 16.

Like it or not, Messi is the greatest. He deserves the Ballon d'Or more than anyone else in the world. Everything else is just speculation.

Dmitry Zhichkin (INST; TG) exclusively for FootyRoom.co

Published by Patrick Jane
31.10.2023