The 2023 Ballon d’Or is already causing a stir, with leaks stating Lionel Messi could beat Erling Haaland to win his eight, ahead of an official announcement as the women’s winner name gets leaked as well
The leaked results have sent shockwaves through the football community, confirming Messi as the 2023 Ballon d’Or winner, This revelation positions him ahead of all other contenders, including Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe.
Ballon d’Or 2023 men’s and women’s winner name leaked ahead of announcement ceremony
The Inter Miami star’s remarkable achievements on the pitch, particularly his instrumental role in Argentina’s triumphant 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign, have propelled him to the brink of history.
Jamie Carragher and Micah Richards are protecting Messi's potential Ballon d'Or 👀😅
(via @Carra23) pic.twitter.com/dLrVKj9nDW
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) October 25, 2023
In the World Cup final against France, Messi’s brilliance shone brightly, as he netted a brace to secure Argentina’s third FIFA World Cup trophy. This unprecedented feat marks a pivotal moment in the history of the Ballon d’Or, as it will be awarded for the 2022/23 season, breaking from the tradition of considering the calendar year.
The leaked results also shed light on the Ballon d’Or Féminin award, where Barcelona women’s star Aitana Bonmati is expected to emerge victorious.
Her pivotal role in Spain’s World Cup triumph, where they overcame England 1-0, has earned her this prestigious accolade. Bonmati could replace her teammate, Alexia Putellas, who claimed the award in the 2021 and 2022 editions.
The spotlight now squarely rests on Lionel Messi’s quest for a historic eighth Ballon d’Or, a feat that would solidify his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time. He faces fierce competition from Erling Haaland, whose stellar season with Manchester City saw him secure a treble.
The 30 nominees announced in September 2023 included luminaries like Messi, Haaland, Kylian Mbappe, and Kevin De Bruyne, with Messi widely regarded as the favorite.
🚨✨ Leo Messi, expected to win the Ballon d’Or 2023.
Understand all the indications are set to be confirmed but Messi will be the final winner once again.
Official decision to be unveiled Monday night in Paris.
🇦🇷 It will be Messi’s historical 8th Ballon d’Or. pic.twitter.com/v8FWZQdeaR
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 25, 2023
His incredible year included leading Argentina to World Cup glory and his exceptional performance for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), where he scored 21 goals and provided 20 assists, contributing to their Ligue 1 title.
Additionally, Messi made a memorable transition to the MLS, joining Inter Miami as a free agent and winning the Leagues Cup with the club after scoring 11 goals and registering five assists in 13 appearances.
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