Who will win the 2023 Ballon d’Or? This question has separated soccer fans around the world. With players like Lionel Messi, Erling Haaland, and Kylian Mbappe in the running, the competition is fierce and the stakes are high. As the soccer world holds its breath, a Liverpool legend has boldly stepped into the spotlight, teasing the golden trophy and offering his audacious prediction.

Meanwhile, amidst the fervor of this year’s Ballon d’Or race, a remarkable absence looms large. For the first time in two decades, Cristiano Ronaldo won’t be visiting the award ceremony as he failed to make the cut.

A popular Liverpool legend reveals who he’s rooting for!

Just a few days remain until the 67th prestigious Ballon d’Or ceremony. The night of October 30th will reveal the winner of the coveted award. As fans from all corners of the world passionately root for their favorite stars to clinch the Golden Ball, Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has also revealed his top pick for the prize.

Recently, the Sky Sports pundit shared a picture on his social media handle, where in the picture he is sitting and pointing towards the Ballon d’Or trophy. Standing alongside him is his colleague and co-host, Micah Richards, who has hilariously posed while making a funny face, as if he will eat it. Aside from this, Carragher wrote a caption saying, “Keeping it safe for #Messi.”

In a surprising turn, the former England international has boldly proclaimed Lionel Messi as the deserving winner of his 8th Ballon d’Or trophy. His daring stance certainly won’t sit well with fans who are rallying behind other contenders for the award. Additionally, some pundits argue that Lionel Messi doesn’t merit the Ballon d’Or, particularly when compared to the likes of Erling Haaland.

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Pundits don’t want Lionel Messi to win Ballon d’Or over Erling Haaland

Recently, soccer analyst and pundit Rory Jennings insisted that despite Messi’s enthralling performance in the 2022 World Cup, the Ballon d’Or should go to Haaland. “It’s totally unjust for the Ballon d’Or to not land at Manchester City. It has to be, the club won a treble, it’s ridiculous, it’s ludicrous,” he said. Days ago, he again claimed it would be a robbery if Haaland didn’t win.

Additionally, ESPN’s Craig Burley claimed, “If Erling Haaland doesn’t win this; close the shop.” Furthermore, former Tottenham star Jason Cundy insisted it would be a disgrace if Messi won it over Haaland. Certainly, the list of Haaland’s supporters is quite long. However, there are still many like Carragher, who believe La Pulga will win his 8th Ballon d’Or. Only time will tell, who is going to win the prestigious award. What’s your prediction? Let us know in the comments below.

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