Lionel Messi's eighth Ballon d'Or already in the bag?! Report claims Inter Miami star will beat Erling Haaland to 2023 award - and get one over on Cristiano Ronaldo with another unique record

The Argentine superstar already has seven Golden Balls to his name – more than anybody else in history. He is now set to be recognised as the best player on the planet once again having inspired his country to World Cup glory at Qatar 2022.

SPORT reports that Messi will be handed the most prestigious of individual accolades at a glitzy ceremony hosted by France Football in Paris on October 30. That award will pull him further clear of eternal rival Cristiano Ronaldo – with the Al-Nassr and Portugal superstar being left on five triumphs.

Messi, who linked up with MLS side Inter Miami over the summer, will also become the first recipient of the Ballon d’Or to be playing their club football outside of Europe - getting another one over on Ronaldo as he plies his trade in Saudi Arabia. In the process of adding another entry to the record books, Messi will pip prolific Manchester City striker Erling Haaland – who hit 52 goals while helping the Blues to Treble glory last season – to the ultimate accolade in professional football.

In the women’s game, another World Cup winner is set to be recognised. Aitana Bonmati – who was named player of the tournament at the 2023 finals in Australia and New Zealand – will walk away with the Ballon d’Or Feminin after starring for Spain and Barcelona.