By Sulaimon Zainab
Argentine football legend, Lionel Messi second time has been left out of the top 30 nominees for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award.
This marks only the second time since 2006 that Messi has missed out on this recognition, sparking discussions and speculation in the football community worldwide.
Messi’s absence from the nominees’ list, along with Cristiano Ronaldo’s, has opened up opportunities for other talented players to shine.
The nominees’ list features a mix of established stars and rising talents, setting the stage for an exciting competition.
The Ballon d’Or winner will be announced at a ceremony in Paris on October 28, with fans eagerly awaiting the outcome.
Despite Messi’s absence, his legacy and contributions to the sport remain unparalleled, and he continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
Some of the top contenders for the Ballon d’Or award include Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior, who are favorites to win.
Other notable nominees include Erling Haaland, Phil Foden, and Kylian Mbappe.
