Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni insists Inter captain Lautaro Martinez should be the front-runner to win the Ballon d’Or this year.
For several years, this prestigious award used to be a direct showdown between Cristiano Ronaldo and his eternal rival Lionel Messi. But with Father Time finally catching up with the iconic duo, it has become an open ballot, especially this season.
Some fans and observers tip Jude Bellingham to lift the award following a sensational first campaign at Real Madrid, while others argue in favor of his teammate Vinicius, despite his miserable Copa America campaign. Spain’s Rodri and Dani Carvajal are also in the running after their Euro 2024 triumph.
Nevertheless, Scaloni insists Martinez deserves it more than any other, especially after his exploits in the Copa America that allowed Argentina to retain their continental crown.
“Lautaro had a spectacular year,” said the Argentina coach during the pre-match conference ahead of the World Cup qualifier against Bolivia (via FcInterNews).
“He scored the winner in the Copa America final and was the tournament’s top scorer. He deserves it more than anyone else. I appreciate him a lot. I hope he wins it. He has been with us from Day One. If he doesn’t win it now, it will happen in the future.”
The 27-year-old also led Inter towards a historic Scudetto title, finishing the season as the league’s top goalscorer by a large margin, while also earning himself the Serie A MVP award.
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