Diego Simeone: Lionel Messi should win the 2026 Ballon d'Or
Simeone cites Messi's World Cup returns and 43 goals for Inter Miami in 2025 as reasons for his pick.
Debate around the 2026 Ballon d'Or intensified after Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone publicly named his pick: Lionel Messi. The discussion has dominated football circles in the run-up to the award decision, with many high-profile figures weighing in on who should take home the sport's top individual honour.
Why Simeone backed Messi
Simeone pointed to Messi's contributions at the 2026 World Cup and his club form as the basis for his choice. Messi, an eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, finished the tournament with eight goals and four assists, and his performances were pivotal in Argentina reaching the final.
Beyond the World Cup, Simeone also noted Messi's 2025 season for Inter Miami: an eye-catching tally of 43 goals across all competitions that helped the club capture its first-ever league title.
Despite the bookmakers listing Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappé among the favourites, Simeone left no doubt about his pick. On the question of who should win, he said: "Messi. Without a doubt. After the World Cup he had at that age, Messi unquestionably deserves it."
The coach’s endorsement adds to a long list of public opinions shaping the narrative before the Ballon d'Or verdict. With several candidates carrying strong cases, the final choice is expected to spark further debate once announced.
The comment was made on 15 September 2026 as the football world awaited the official announcement of the award.
Photo: press material from the event
