- Lionel Messi, playing for Inter Miami, has decided to give away his most recent Ballon d’Or trophy, won just months ago, amidst controversy surrounding his victory over Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe.
- Messi clinched his record eighth Ballon d’Or title in October after leading Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, a major accolade missing from his illustrious career until then.
- Despite the award, criticism arose, particularly from fans and pundits who believed Manchester City’s Haaland was more deserving.
- Spanish journalist Miquel Blazquez reports that Messi has chosen to donate the Ballon d’Or trophy to Barcelona, his former club, even though he didn’t win it during his tenure there.
- Barcelona will now exhibit Messi’s eighth Ballon d’Or alongside the other seven in their club museum, acknowledging his legendary status at the Nou Camp.
- Messi’s legacy at Barcelona is solidified, having won 10 Spanish titles and four Champions League trophies, and scoring an incredible 672 goals in 778 games during his time there.
