'It wouldn’t be logical' - Eden Hazard explains why Lionel Messi must win Ballon d'Or ahead of Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland

Messi is seen as one of the top candidates to win the prize in a ceremony in Paris on Monday. The Inter Miami star's leading role in Argentina's journey to the World Cup title in Qatar last year has sparked many calls for the 36-year-old to be given a record-extending eighth Ballon d'Or.

However, Messi faces competition from Erling Haaland following his role in Manchester City's European and English treble triumph. Kylian Mbappe is also seen as a real challenger given he helped fire France to the World Cup final and scored a hat-trick in the decider that they ultimately lost to Argentina.

Hazard claims Messi is the only one who deserves it this year, though, telling Telefoot: “It wouldn’t be logical to not give the Ballon d’Or to the best player in history in the year that he won the World Cup."

Had the final in Qatar gone differently, however, the former Belgium and Chelsea attacker says PSG's star forward would be the right winner, adding: "And if the World Cup changes for France, Kylian has the Golden Ball. Without a doubt, 100 per cent!"

The winner of the award will be announced on Monday in a ceremony in the French capital.