Lionel Messi, one of the biggest stars in the world of soccer, is once again at the forefront of sports headlines, and this time, the expectation is that he will clinch his eighth Ballon d’Or. Messi’s nomination for the 2023 Best Male Soccer Player in the World award is not just a formality; it’s a celebration of his extraordinary career and his remarkable journey in the United States as part of Inter Miami CF.
Messi, whose brilliant career was predominantly associated with FC Barcelona, already boasts seven Ballon d’Or trophies in his collection. But now, he’s on the path to securing the eighth, which would place him in an even more exclusive echelon, as no player in the history of soccer has won the award so many times.
His recent move to Inter Miami CF, following a brief stint at Paris Saint-Germain, not only surprised the soccer world but also rejuvenated him. Messi, alongside his former teammates Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, has displayed a spectacular performance since his arrival in Major League Soccer (MLS). With 11 goals and 8 assists in just 11 games across all competitions, he has not only helped the team secure their first trophy but also secured a spot in the Concacaf Champions League in 2024.
Furthermore, Inter Miami CF is set to host the US Open Cup final in September and is in pursuit of the playoffs in the 2023 Audi MLS Cup. Messi’s presence in the team has not only elevated Inter Miami’s level of play but has also brought a new dimension to MLS, showcasing to the world that the American league can attract and retain world-class talent.
Messi’s Ballon d’Or journey is equally impressive. Being nominated 16 times is a testament to his incredible consistency and excellence over the years. If he wins again, it won’t just be a personal achievement but also an honor for MLS, as Messi would become the first active winner of the award to play in the American league.
The stage is set for an exciting award ceremony on October 30th in Paris, where the soccer world eagerly awaits to see if Messi can indeed clinch his eighth Ballon d’Or. Regardless of the outcome, his journey thus far, his swift adaptation to American soccer, and his exceptional performance are testimonies to Messi’s unparalleled talent and his ability to continue surprising and enchanting soccer fans worldwide.