Messi Gives Away Controversial Eighth Ballon d’Or Trophy

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Inter Miami forward, Lionel Messi, has given away his latest Ballon d’Or trophy only months after he won it controversially ahead of Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe.

In October 2023, Messi was crowned the best player in the world for a record eighth time, after he led Argentina to glory at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

The 36-year-old was handed the award almost seven months from winning the one major honour that had eluded him throughout his career.

It left some fans and pundits furious, as they felt Manchester City’s Haaland was more deserving.

However, four months on from the award win, Messi has given away his latest individual prize.

According to Spanish journalist, Miquel Blazquez, Messi has donated his Ballon d’Or trophy to Barcelona despite not winning it with his old club.

This will allow Barca to place their all-time-great former player’s eighth award alongside the other seven that are in their club museum.

Messi cemented a legacy as arguably the greatest player in soccer history at the Nou Camp, winning 10 Spanish titles and four Champions Leagues while scoring an incredible 672 goals in 778 games.

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