Lionel Messi, the famend Argentine footballer, made headlines as soon as once more by gifting away his newest Ballon d’Or trophy to the membership that launched his skilled profession, Barcelona.
This transfer comes simply months after he controversially gained the award, beating out robust contenders like Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe.
Messi’s exceptional achievement in successful his eighth Ballon d’Or was a results of his stellar efficiency on the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the place he led Argentina to victory, securing the one main honor that had eluded him in his illustrious profession.
Following his World Cup triumph, Messi shocked the soccer world by leaving Paris Saint-Germain and becoming a member of Major League Soccer (MLS) aspect Inter Miami.
In his first few months with the David Beckham-owned franchise, Messi dazzled followers by scoring 11 targets in 14 video games and serving to the group safe its first-ever trophy within the Leagues Cup.
Despite his continued success on the sector, Messi’s Ballon d’Or win sparked controversy amongst followers and pundits alike, with many arguing that Haaland was extra deserving of the award.
However, Messi has now determined to donate his Ballon d’Or trophy to Barcelona, his former membership, the place it is going to be part of the opposite seven trophies he gained whereas taking part in for the Catalan giants.
During his time at Barcelona, Messi solidified his legacy as one of many best gamers in soccer historical past, successful 10 La Liga titles and 4 UEFA Champions Leagues and scoring an unimaginable 672 targets in 778 video games.
As he gears up for the beginning of the 2024 MLS season with Inter Miami, Messi just lately discovered himself embroiled in an issue over his participation in a pleasant match in Hong Kong.
Amid accusations of skipping the match for political causes, Messi clarified his stance, stating that such claims had been unfaithful and reaffirming his longstanding relationship with China.
Source: www.dailysabah.com