In the world of football, few names command as much attention and admiration as Lionel Messi. The Argentine maestro has long been the standard-bearer for excellence on the pitch, winning numerous accolades and breaking countless records throughout his illustrious career. The Inter Miami star has already bagged the most prestigious individual honor in soccer a record seven times. However, a surprising challenger has emerged for the coveted 2023 Ballon d’Or, and it’s not who you might expect.

A French international and 1998 FIFA WC winner has ignited a heated debate by advocating a rather unexpected candidate to claim this year’s Ballon d’Or.

A WC winner snubs Lionel Messi and Haaland from Ballon d’Or contention

World Champion and ESPN pundit, Frank Leboeuf argued passionately and threw down the gauntlet, suggesting that Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland’s glittering performances may not be enough to secure the coveted award this year. He has asked for the recognition of Manchester City’s Julian Alvarez as the rightful heir to the prestigious individual honor.

In a video for ESPN FC, Leboeuf said, “If we give the award to the player because of what he won, or how many goals he scored – I’m sorry, there is one guy who made the quadruple. He did what Messi and Haaland did, but he did all of it in one – World Cup, Premier League, League Cup & UEFA Champions League. His name is Alvarez and he’s from Argentina.”

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Leboeuf’s argument centers around the idea that the Ballon d’Or should not merely be a reward for individual brilliance or goal-scoring prowess. Instead, he contends that it should honor those players who have made a substantial impact on their teams, both at the association and international levels.

Leboeuf also pointed out that Alvarez is not as well-known as Messi and Haaland, which is why he is not considered to be a favorite for the Ballon d’Or. He said, “Of course, nobody cares about him because politically he’s not interesting to anybody.”

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However, Leboeuf believes that this should not matter, as the award should be given to the player who has had the best season, regardless of their popularity.

Messi and Haaland are still favorites for the Ballon d’Or

Despite Leboeuf’s comments, Messi and Haaland are still the favorites to win the Ballon d’Or. Messi is the defending champion, and he had a good season with PSG and Argentina. Haaland also had a great season with Manchester City, scoring 52 goals in 51 games.

However, Alvarez’s case is a strong one, and he could surprise some people and win the Ballon d’Or. He is a young and talented player with a bright future, and he has already achieved great things in his career.

As the football world eagerly awaits the announcement of the 2023 Ballon d’Or winner, the debate ignited by Frank Leboeuf rages on. Lionel Messi’s legacy is unquestionable, but Julian Alvarez’s emergence as a contender for the prestigious award adds an unexpected twist to the narrative.

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What do you think? Share your picks for this year’s Ballon d’Or in the comments below!