Lionel Messi: Bellingham Explains Why World Cup Winner Deserved To Win 8th Ballon d’Or Prize

• Jude Bellingham has weighed in on Lionel Messi's 8th Ballon d'Or prize
• The Real Madrid star also scooped home the Kopa Trophy at the 2023 Gala
• He has been in scorching form since joining Los Blancos, scoring 13 goals in 13 games

Jude Bellingham, the England and Real Madrid midfielder, recently clarified why Lionel Messi was unquestionably deserving of securing his historic eighth Ballon d'Or title.

Bellingham, who himself was honoured with the Kopa Trophy at the 2023 Ballon d'Or Awards, swiftly dispelled any doubts surrounding Messi's merit for the prestigious accolade.

The Inter Miami superstar reinforced his standing as the most decorated recipient of the distinguished individual award, triumphing on Monday night at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, France, edging fierce competition from Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe, per GOAL.

Despite widespread acknowledgement of Haaland's extraordinary inaugural season at Manchester City, marked by a remarkable treble victory and an astonishing 52 goals across various competitions, it was the Argentine maestro who ultimately claimed the coveted honour.

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Conversely, there was a prevailing sentiment that Messi's former teammate Mbappe warranted recognition for his exceptional performances domestically with PSG and his significant contributions to France at the 2022 World Cup.

Nevertheless, the 36-year-old emerged triumphant, securing an unprecedented eighth title, with Bellingham firmly endorsing Messi as the rightful recipient of the accolade.

“It's World Cup year, and Lionel Messi had a fantastic World Cup; he deserves to win the Ballon d'Or,” the 20-year-old said, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano.

Furthermore, he dedicated a moment to extend his heartfelt appreciation to all those who had played a part in his extraordinary journey.

“I want to thank everyone who supported me in my journey. From Birmingham to Dortmund, now to Real Madrid. There is more to come”.

Bellingham wins Kopa Trophy

At the same event, Bellingham was officially declared the 2023 Kopa Trophy winner, as reported by Sports Brief.

Lionel Messi: Argentine star reportedly 'wins eighth Ballon d'Or' after World Cup success

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The esteemed award was bestowed upon the Real Madrid midfielder during a lavish ceremony hosted at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, France.

The Kopa Trophy, honouring the most exceptional footballer under the age of 21, has previously been garnered by talents such as Kylian Mbappe, Matthijs de Ligt, Pedri Gonzalez, and most recently, Barcelona's Pablo Gavi since its establishment in 2018.