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Argentina captain and 8-time World Player of the Year Lionel Messi has backed Lautaro Martinez’s chances of winning the Ballon d’Or this year.
Speaking to TyC Sports after Argentina’s 6-0 win over Bolivia, Messi praised Martinez for his performances last season in the Serie A and the Copa America.
The Barcelona legend endorsed the 27-year-old to lift the individual accolade this year, ahead of the likes of Vinicius Junior and Manchester City midfielder Rodri.
Messi backs Lautaro Martinez for Ballon d’Or
After scoring a hat-trick against Bolivia, Messi took some time to praise his red-hot teammate.
“Lautaro deserves the Ballon d’Or more than anyone else. He had a spectacular year, he scored in the final, and he was the top scorer in the Copa America.”
Martinez is not the clear favourite by any means but could make his way into the final three. However, his nomination comes on the back of a stunning campaign with Inter when he scored 27 goals across all competitions.
He also lifted the Copa America where he emerged as the top scorer of the tournament, netting five goals and scoring in the final.
