Gerardo Martino claims Lionel Messi is still ‘the best in the world’ with Inter Miami boss confused by Ballon d’Or criteria ahead of expected Vinicius Junior coronation

The Real Madrid star is expected to be presented with the award in France on Monday, ending Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi’s dominance when it comes to the French trophy. There is no doubt Vinicius enjoyed a stellar 2023-24 season, as he helped Real Madrid win a La Liga and Champions League double, but Inter Miami head coach Martino has questioned the criteria of the Ballon d’Or and has labelled his Argentine magician as the best.

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  WHAT MARTINO SAID

  The Miami boss said: “It [the Ballon d’Or] has never been something that caught my attention, nor was it clear to me whether the award is for the best in the world or of the year. Vinicius Junior probably has the merit [of being the best last season], although if you ask me who is the best right now, it’s Messi.”

  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Messi won his record-extending eighth Ballon d’Or in 2023 after leading Argentina to their third World Cup crown, but was not even nominated for the 2024 prize. It has been suggested that the 37-year-old has been penalised for joining Inter Miami, but he still looks at the top of his game despite playing in Major League Soccer. So far this season, he has scored 20 goals and tallied a further 11 assists as Miami have made it through to the play-offs.

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  WHAT NEXT FOR MESSI?

  After finally settling in the U.S. after a tough spell at Paris Saint-Germain, Messi is looking to push Miami to the limit as they compete for the MLS Cup. Having beaten Atlanta United 2-1 in their first play-off game, Martino’s side will aim to repeat the trick against the Georgia-based side on Friday away from home.