Argentina midfielder Rodrigo De Paul has backed national team captain Lionel Messi to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or following his impressive performance at the FIFA World Cup.
Speaking to TUDN Mexico, De Paul said Messi was the best player at the tournament and deserved to claim the individual award.
“In my opinion, Leo Messi should win the Ballon d’Or,” De Paul said. “For me, there is no discussion. What he did at this World Cup at the age of 39, being the best player of the tournament, is something no one will ever do again.”
Messi has already announced his retirement from international football after scoring eight goals during the World Cup.
The Inter Miami forward also recorded two assists at the tournament.
