Why did Messi not qualify for the Ballon d Or?

Why Did Messi Not Qualify for the Ballon d'Or? The Shocking Reality

Honestly, I’m still scratching my head about this one. How could someone like Lionel Messi, one of the greatest footballers to ever play the game, not qualify for the Ballon d'Or? I mean, we’re talking about a player who has set countless records, led teams to victories, and carried Argentina to a Copa América title. So, what happened? Let’s break it down and see why Messi didn’t make the cut.

Messi’s 2023 Performance: Did He Deserve the Ballon d'Or?

Well, let’s start with the basics. Messi’s 2023 season was solid, to say the least. He was instrumental in Argentina’s success at the World Cup, but here's the thing—the Ballon d'Or voting period only considered performances from the 2022/2023 season. This might sound a little confusing, but the timing of Messi’s achievements played a role in the decision.

The World Cup: Messi’s Triumph and Its Timing

Honestly, if we’re looking at the 2022 World Cup, Messi was undoubtedly a standout performer. He was exceptional throughout the tournament, leading Argentina to its first World Cup title since 1986. He scored crucial goals, including a brilliant strike against France in the final, and won the Golden Ball for being the best player of the tournament.

I remember watching the final and thinking, "This is it, Messi has to win the Ballon d'Or now." It just felt like the perfect culmination of his career. But the voting period was already well underway by the time the World Cup final came around. Ballon d'Or voters typically focus on club performances too, which brings us to Messi's time at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).

Messi's PSG Season: Disappointing for Some Voters?

Okay, here’s where it gets tricky. Messi’s time at PSG during the 2022/2023 season wasn’t exactly mind-blowing. While he had some great moments, especially in the Champions League, PSG’s underperformance overall may have hurt his case. Let’s face it—PSG, despite being filled with superstars, didn’t exactly make a big splash in Europe that season.

Honestly, when I think back on that season, it felt like Messi was just one piece of a larger puzzle at PSG, but not the standout performer. Sure, he played his part, but the collective team performance wasn’t something that screamed Ballon d'Or-worthy. Kylian Mbappé, for example, had a more consistent and dynamic season in both domestic and international competitions, and I think that’s why Messi didn’t stand out in the Ballon d'Or voting that year.

The Rising Stars: Why Messi Faced Tough Competition

Okay, but even if Messi’s PSG season wasn’t fantastic, that doesn’t explain completely why he didn’t qualify. The reality is, the 2023 Ballon d'Or wasn’t lacking in talent. There were several players who had phenomenal seasons, which means Messi had stiff competition. I had a conversation with a friend recently, and he pointed out something interesting: "There were so many breakout players this year, Messi wasn’t the only star."

Erling Haaland: The Juggernaut at Manchester City

Let’s talk about Erling Haaland for a second. The Norwegian striker had an explosive season with Manchester City, breaking records left and right, including most goals in a single Premier League season. City’s Champions League victory sealed the deal for him. With a season like that, it was hard to overlook Haaland, even though Messi was shining in his own way.

Honestly, if I had to choose, Haaland probably had the more consistent year from start to finish. His performance was undeniable, and when you factor in City’s success, it makes sense why he received the Ballon d'Or.

Other Contenders: Mbappé and Benzema

Then there’s Kylian Mbappé, who was simply outstanding, especially during the World Cup. His goals in the final were phenomenal, and it’s impossible to ignore his contributions at PSG. Then we have Karim Benzema, who had a stellar individual season with Real Madrid and ended up winning the Ballon d'Or in 2022. His form didn’t drop in 2023 either, and while not winning this time, his consistency and achievements put him firmly in the running.

It’s clear that the level of competition for the Ballon d'Or in 2023 was fierce, and Messi, despite his greatness, had to face up to some incredible talents.

The Role of the Voting System: Did It Play Against Messi?

I’ve always been fascinated by how the Ballon d'Or voting works. Honestly, there are so many variables. Coaches, journalists, and captains all vote for their top players, but individual preferences and biases inevitably play a role. It’s not just about raw statistics or achievements—there’s an emotional and subjective side to it too.

The Influence of Media and Public Perception

Another factor to consider is the media's influence on the voters. Players like Mbappé and Haaland had the public’s eye on them all year. Messi, despite his World Cup heroics, didn’t quite have the same buzz around him in the media. This can definitely sway votes in subtle ways, and I think that played a part in Messi not qualifying for the shortlist.

What Does This Mean for Messi’s Legacy?

Okay, so Messi not qualifying for the Ballon d'Or this year is certainly a surprise. But here’s the thing—his legacy isn’t defined by one award. Let’s be real, Messi is a legend. He’s already won multiple Ballon d'Ors and has achieved more than most players can dream of. His career, his World Cup victory, and his influence on football history are irreplaceable.

I was talking to a colleague recently, and we both agreed—Messi’s legacy is beyond awards. Sure, the Ballon d'Or is prestigious, but it doesn’t define the greatness of a player who’s already cemented his place in football history.

Conclusion: Messi Will Always Be a Legend

Honestly, while I was disappointed to see Messi not qualify for the 2023 Ballon d'Or, I’m not worried about his legacy. The guy is a footballing genius, and no one can take away what he’s accomplished. Did he deserve to qualify? Maybe. But the competition was fierce, and there were a lot of standout performances this year.

Messi is still Messi, and he’ll continue to inspire future generations, Ballon d'Or or not.

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