“Awards Will Certainly Come in the Future” – Lionel Messi Extends Support to Erling Haaland After Winning His 8th Ballon d’Or

The soccer fraternity finally has the winner of the 2023 Ballon d’Or. Argentinian superstar Lionel Messi has finally clinched his eighth prestigious award. After receiving the award with an enormous round of applause, the Inter Miami star extended his heartwarming support to Erling Haaland, who missed out on his first trophy.

Meanwhile, Messi has once again written his name in the history books as he won his record eighth award, becoming the second oldest player to win it. As for Haaland, his chance will come, according to the Argentine. 

Lionel Messi wins his eighth Ballon d’Or as he backs Erling Haaland

Soccer fans finally witnessed Lionel Messi clinch the Ballon d’Or. Sadly, Erling Haaland missed out on the chance to claim his first award. However, it was the World Cup winner who managed to increase his number to 8. Interestingly, while giving a speech, the 36-year-old took his time to extend his support to his rival, Haaland. It shows the humble nature of the Inter Miami star. 

Receiving his award from David Beckham, Messi stated, “Haaland had a historic season and won all the titles, and the awards will certainly come in the future.” Surprisingly, the Argentinian maestro flared his support for Haaland, insisting he still has time to win the grand prize. The former Barcelona man also acknowledged his collective and individual achievements.

Indeed, these are some heartfelt words from La Pulga. Certainly, the game recognizes the game, and Messi has also instilled his faith in Haaland to lift the award someday. However, coming back to Messi’s achievement, the former Barcelona star has created history by not only becoming the first player to win eight Ballon d’Ors but also the first MLS player to do so.

READ MORE: Jude Bellingham Wins 2023 Kopa Trophy at Ballon d’Or Ceremony in Paris

Certainly, his ardent followers must be delighted to see their GOAT add yet another accolade to his collection. Meanwhile, let’s talk about other stars who went home with a trophy.

The major winners at the 2023 Ballon d’Or

While Messi lifted the Ballon d’Or in the men’s category, Barcelona and Spain midfielder Aitana Bonmati won the Ballon d’Or Feminin. Although Haaland missed the award he was eyeing, he won the Gerd Muller Award for his goal-scoring prowess. Additionally, Real Madrid superstar Jude Bellingham won the Kopa Trophy.

Bellingham’s teammate Vinicius Jr. won the Socrates Award for his work against racism and education programs. Messi’s Argentinian teammate, Elimiano Martinez, won the Lev Yashin Trophy for his goalkeeping antics. Furthermore, Manchester City won the Club of the Year, while FC Barcelona Femení won the Women’s Club of the Year. Indeed, it was quite a busy night in France.

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