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Rodrigo De Paul backs Lionel Messi for 2026 Ballon d’Or win

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 18, 2026, 12:30 PM

Last updated Sep 18, 2026

Rodrigo De Paul backs Lionel Messi for 2026 Ballon d’Or win

Summary

Rodrigo De Paul of Inter Miami stated that Lionel Messi deserves the 2026 Ballon d'Or following his impressive performances. Messi helped lead Argentina to the World Cup final in North America and contributed significantly to Inter Miami's first MLS Cup. De Paul emphasized the Argentine's impact during the tournament, advocating for Messi amid a competitive field, including Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe. The discussion about the winner remains open as the award approaches.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Messi is a nominee for the 2026 Ballon d'Or.
•De Paul cites Messi's World Cup performance as decisive.
•Messi recorded 85 combined goals and assists in 2025/26.
•Other contenders include Kane and Mbappe, who had mixed seasons.
•The Ballon d'Or race is described as open this year.

Latest Updates

12:30 PMYahoo Sports — ‘No discussion’: Inter Miami star explains why Lionel Messi should win Ballon d’Or

What they're saying

"
Lionel Messi is among the 2026 Ballon d’Or nominees, and Rodrigo De Paul is adamant the Argentine should win it. Across 2025/26, Messi helped Inter Miami win their first MLS Cup and took his country to the World Cup final in North America.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Inter Miami Bayern Munich Champions League Soccer