“Awards are Given to Players Who Make an Effort” – NT Colleague Turned Rival Defends Lionel Messi’s FIFA The Best Award Win

It’s not uncommon to see players bashing criticism of Lionel Messi’s awards. Argentina’s captain, despite displaying magical abilities on the field, comes under a lot of scrutiny. Recently, the jibes got higher after he won the FIFA Best Award for 2023 in place of Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe. However, his former national teammate and current rival, Ever Banega, felt Messi deserved what he has won until now for making “an effort.”

The Inter Miami captain was sidelined for a major part of his stint at Inter Miami last season due to an injury. However, the player had a decent time overall, with 28 goals and 12 assists in 2023. But soccer bodies, including French football, were criticized for awarding the 36-year-old as the best player. Nevertheless, experts are going beyond numbers to justify why Messi deserves what he has won until now.

Ever Banega justifies the accolades won by Lionel Messi

The game against Newell’s Old Boys today will be the final preseason match for Inter Miami before they kick off their season. The much-anticipated reunion game only sees Lionel Messi as the hot topic. And his childhood club’s current captain, Banega, took the opportunity to express his support for his country’s icon. In yesterday’s press conference, Banega said, “In the end, awards are given to players who make an effort, and he did his best and he won everything, and he deserves it because he is the best player in history.”

On the other hand, many people felt that Erling Haaland deserved the FIFA Best Award for 2023 for his contribution to Manchester City’s treble win. The Norwegian scored a massive 50 goals in total for club and country, but Messi walked away with the award, baffling the fraternity around the world. However, the former Valencia player felt Messi’s work on the pitch made him fit for everything he won in the past.

Moreover, the Newell’s Old Boys midfielder showered praise on Lionel Messi’s generosity. When asked what sets the Argentina captain apart, Banega also said, “Always respectful and humble; he never forgets anyone and is always caring; and above all, he has a winning mentality because he always fought for it and never gave up!” Argentina’s soccer fans will remember how the star came out of retirement to win all the major international tournaments.

READ MORE – Tata Martino Drops Positive Lionel Messi Update Ahead of Newell’s Old Boys Friendly: Reports

Banega had the privilege to share the pitch with the maestro on multiple occasions. As an opponent, Banega played 27 games against him in Spain and 45 games alongside him for Argentina. But the player is excited to be a part of this match, which will take Messi down memory lane.

WATCH THIS STORY:  Max Verstappen joins Lionel Messi in creating special historic feat