Lionel Messi has had an incredible season. The Inter Miami forward won the biggest prize of all, the World Cup with Argentina. He was awarded the Golden Ball for his outstanding World Cup performances. Messi made over 40 goal contributions for PSG. The Argentine superstar is considered by many to be the favorite to win the Ballon d’Or this season. Despite his remarkable campaign, a former PSG midfielder believes the veteran won’t be in the race for the award this season.

Kylian Mbappe‘s teammate believes that Mbappe and Erling Haaland are the favorites to win the Ballon d’Or this season. This bold statement has caused a lot of shock among soccer fans worldwide, as Messi is the most likely to win the award this season.

Lionel Messi’s ruled out of the Ballon d’Or race by his former teammate.

Juventus star Adrien Rabiot picks Mbappe and Haaland as the favorites to win this season’s award. He has excluded every other player from the trophy, including Messi. When asked about the Ballon d’Or winner this season, he said on RMC Sport, “I hear a lot that Messi is going to get it. But on a sporting level, it will be played between Mbappé and Haaland. Depending on the criteria, not everyone ever agrees, but it will be between these two.”

Kylian Mbappe had an astounding year for both club and county. The 24-year-old won the Golden Boot award at the 2022 World Cup. He won the domestic double and made 51-goal contributions for PSG. On the other hand, Erling Haaland also had a fantastic campaign with Manchester City. He won the treble and was the top Champions League and Premier League scorer. He made over a monstrous 61-goal contribution for The Citizens. Despite their remarkable campaigns, Lionel Messi looks the favorite to win his 8th Ballon d’Or this season. His stunning World Cup performances might be why the veteran might win the award.

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Lionel Messi’s unbelievable start to life in the MLS.

Lionel Messi has been in ridiculous form since he moved to Inter Miami. The former PSG forward has scored 11 goals and made eight assists in only 13 games. He was the star for the club in their first-ever title success, the Leagues Cup. With Messi on the side, the Herons have averaged more goals and points per game. But since his injury, they have been abysmal. They have only won one of their last six games. Their hopes of qualifying for the playoffs are almost over, with only two games left. But the Argentine had a tremendous individual debut season with the US club.

And rumors suggest the veteran might move back to Barcelona on a loan. But for now, the World Cup winner will focus on playing for his country in the World Cup qualifiers and then look to play the remaining two fixtures with the Herons.

It will be interesting to see whether Messi stays at Inter Miami next season or decides to leave the club after only spending one season there. What do you think? Will Messi stay or leave? Let us know in the comments!

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