In a surprising turn of events leading up to the announcement of the 2023 Ballon d’Or winner, former Chelsea defender Jason Cundy has expressed strong opinions on Lionel Messi’s potential victory, deeming it a “disgrace.”
Cundy, a pundit known for his candid remarks, firmly believes that Manchester City striker Erling Haaland should be the undisputed recipient of this year’s prestigious individual award. With the Ballon d’Or winner set to be unveiled later this month, the football world eagerly awaits the outcome.
Messi, Haaland, and Paris Saint-Germain’s Kylian Mbappe are currently the frontrunners for the accolade, and opinions are divided on who deserves the honor the most.
During a recent appearance on talkSPORT, Cundy voiced his sentiments, saying, “I think if Haaland doesn’t win it [Ballon d’Or], it’s a disgrace. I think it’s a disgrace, Messi will win it because he won the World Cup.”
Cundy’s perspective revolves around Messi’s World Cup victory with Argentina, while Haaland’s exceptional season with Manchester City is highlighted. The Inter Miami forward secured the FIFA World Cup in Qatar and clinched the French Ligue 1 title with PSG before departing the club in the summer. On the other hand, Haaland celebrated a remarkable 2022/23 season, securing the treble—Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League—with Manchester City.
As the anticipation builds, football enthusiasts worldwide eagerly await the announcement that will determine who claims the coveted Ballon d’Or for 2023.
