Ballon d'Or twist: definitive clue published
The award's official account unusually reminds that a player who does not play in Europe can also win it. A nod to Messi. The final could decide it.
The World Cup final is set to decide not only the title but, very likely, the Ballon d’Or as well. This year’s race is wide open, and the tournament itself could prove decisive. With Spain and Argentina contesting the trophy, the winner of football’s most prestigious individual award could emerge from either side.
There is little doubt in Argentina: if Lionel Messi wins a second World Cup, he will immediately become the Ballon d’Or favourite. To his achievements with Inter Miami, including the MLS title, he would add another historic triumph with Argentina at the age of 39. His accomplishments have already earned widespread recognition, and one detail from the Ballon d’Or’s official social media account has only strengthened his case. With 72 hours remaining until the final, the account reminded fans that a player based outside Europe is also eligible to win the award.
If Spain triumphs, however, the picture becomes far less clear. Lamine Yamal, currently viewed as the second favourite, would have a strong claim after winning the league title and potentially adding a World Cup. Yet Rodri, whose standing among international voters remains exceptionally high, as demonstrated when he won the award two years ago, would also re-enter the conversation.
As things stand, it appears that players such as Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembélé have a realistic path to the Ballon d’Or only if Messi and Argentina are beaten in the final. The Ballon d’Or account’s reminder that a player based outside Europe can still win the award has only reinforced that belief. Messi’s ninth Ballon d’Or is now a genuine possibility.
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