Lionel Messi: 5 reasons Argentina superstar win the 2024 Ballon d'Or

• Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are two of the most successful footballers when it comes to the Ballon d'Or award
• Focus has since shifted to the 2024 edition of the award, with Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham favourites
• Sports Brief takes a look at five reasons why the legendary Argentine forward could win this year's Ballon d’Or

With victories over Canada, Chile and Peru, Lionel Messi’s Argentina has had a stellar start in the 2024 Copa America.

As the reigning World Cup and Copa America champions, they entered the tournament eager to defend their title.

Messi, who has won a record eight Ballon d’Or awards, is the perfect leader to guide his nation to triumph.

Copa America: Endrick and 3 other young superstars who could light up the tournament in the USA

Football

In the 2023-24 season, he scored 14 goals and provided 11 assists in 15 games for Inter Miami, propelling The Herons to the top of the MLS Eastern Conference.

This outstanding form could help La Albiceleste retain their continental crown this year. Could La Pulga win the Ballon d’Or in October?

Messi’s incredible performances on the pitch have always been recognized. With around 52 individual awards, he is the most decorated player in football history.

In 2023, the Argentine added an eighth Ballon d’Or to his collection, the most for any player in the award's history.

The previous year, he led his nation to international glory at the FIFA World Cup. With Argentina making it to the knockout stages of yet another international competition at the Copa America, it’s fair to wonder if we are witnessing the prelude to another Ballon d’Or for Lionel Messi.

Copa America: Young Canada mascots could not believe they were in Lionel Messi’s presence; Video

Football

Sports Brief examines five reasons why the legendary forward could win this year's Ballon d’Or.

Why Messi Could Win This Year's Ballon d’Or

Splendid performance with Inter Miami

Since joining the MLS side in July 2023, Messi has scored 25 goals and provided 16 assists in 29 appearances, averaging a goal every 56 minutes.

Fourteen of these goals have come in his 15 appearances for Inter Miami this season. In this short period, he has risen to third place on Inter Miami’s all-time top goal-scorers list.

With his contract expiring in December 2025, Messi is likely to climb to the top of the list. His impressive efforts have led his MLS team to the top of their division, putting him in a strong position in the Ballon d’Or race.

The destiny of other contenders

The Ballon d’Or is a coveted award, regarded by many as the most prestigious individual honor in sports history. Messi will compete against Real Madrid stars Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo Goes, and Jude Bellingham.

Lionel Messi: Argentina Superstar becomes most capped player in Copa America history

Football

If Brazil advances past the group stages of the ongoing Copa America, fans might see Messi face Vinicius and Rodrygo in the competition, allowing voters to compare these players directly. Vinicius is a strong favorite following his Champions League performance last season, with six goals and five assists in 10 games.

Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe are also contenders for the Ballon d’Or and are currently playing in Euro 2024. While both competitions are in the early stages, a Copa America victory for Argentina would give Messi an edge over his competitors.

Inspirational Leadership

Beyond his statistics and individual accolades, Messi’s leadership qualities have been crucial to Argentina’s success.

His experience, vision, and ability to motivate his teammates are invaluable.

Leading by example, Messi has inspired his team to perform at their best, showcasing his importance not just as a player but as a captain.

International Glory

Messi beat Ronaldo, Pele with new record in Copa America

Football

The prelude to Messi’s eighth Ballon d’Or was his victory on the international stage.

His performance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup helped Argentina clinch the trophy, with Messi scoring seven goals and providing three assists in seven games.

His spectacular display in the final against France, where he scored twice and converted a penalty, capped his Ballon d’Or campaign.

La Albiceleste are favourites to lift the 2024 Copa America trophy, and with an impressive start, Messi seems to be leading his national team to victory.

The Argentine has already provided an assist in the competition and was vital in securing his team's victories.

Carlo Ancelotti backs Vini for Ballon d'Or

Earlier, Sports Brief reported on Real Madrid manager, Carlo Ancelotti, sharing his insights on who he is backing to win the 2024 Ballon d'Or award.

Brazilian star, Vinicius Jr, and his Real Madrid teammate, Bellingham, are the clear frontrunners to win the individual honour after both excelled.