Lionel Messi is in line for more Ballon d’Or recognition after seeing Inter Miami nominated for a new award. Paris Saint-Germain superstar Ousmane Dembele walked away with the Golden Ball in 2025, with the one-time Barcelona team-mate of Argentine icon Messi being named the best player on the planet. Several other prestigious prizes have been handed out.
Another accolade is yet to be handed out, with a fan vote required in order to determine the winner. It is there that Messi, with eight Ballons d’Or to his name, comes back into the equation.
Why is Messi among the contenders?
The Best Play of the Year award is to become the 14th prize on the Ballon d’Or list, with the finest team goal from around the world being recognised. Jordi Alba’s effort for Inter Miami against the New York Red Bulls in July is among the contenders, with said strike being teed up by a sublime pass from Messi.
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Who else is up for The Best Player gong?
Andreas Pereira’s goal for Brazil in a World Cup qualifier with Peru is another contender, alongside Desire Doue’s strike for PSG that put them three goals clear of Inter in the 2025 Champions League final.
When will the new Ballon d'Or award be handed out?
The winner of the Best Play of the Year award will be revealed on September 26 - with Messi, Mbappe, Yamal and Co waiting to discover whether another entry will be added to their respective rolls of honour.
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