The 2023 Ballon d’Or award, which honors the best male footballer of the year, is shaping up to be a furious contest between two of the most productive and influential players in the world: Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland.
Messi, who has won the award a record seven times, is having another stellar season with Inter Miami in the MLS, where he joined in July 2023 after leaving PSG. The Argentine wizard has scored 11 goals and provided 11 assists in 11 appearances, leading his team to the top of the Eastern Conference and the Leagues Cup title. He also helped Argentina win the Copa America in 2022, scoring four goals and assisting five more in the tournament.
Haaland, on the other hand, is the rising star of world football, who has taken the Chief League by storm since his transition to Manchester City in July 2022. The Norwegian striker has netted 31 goals and assisted 10 more in 29 games across all competitions, helping his team win the UEFA Super Cup, the Local area Shield, and maintain a comfortable lead in the league table. He also scored 11 goals in five games for Norway in the World Cup qualifiers, securing their spot in Qatar 2022.
The two players have been breaking records and setting new standards with their phenomenal performances, however who deserves to win the coveted Ballon d’Or prize more?
According to France Football, which organizes the award, the three main criteria for selecting the winner are: individual and aggregate performance from the past season, a player’s class and their career.
Based on these criteria, Messi seems to have an edge over Haaland, as he has been more consistent and influential all through his career, winning more titles and awards than his more youthful rival. He also has a higher reputation and recognition among his friends and fans, as well as a more diverse and creative style of play.
Notwithstanding, Haaland cannot be underestimated, as he has been sensational and unstoppable since his arrival in England, breaking several records and scoring goals for the sake of entertainment. He also has a more physical and strong presence on the pitch, as well as a savage and clinical finishing ability.
The final decision will ultimately depend on the votes of media members from around 100 nations, who will have to weigh up the benefits of the two players and pick their top five candidates. The winner will be announced in December 2023 at a gala ceremony in Paris.
Who do you think should win the Ballon d’Or?
