Simeone puts Messi atop the Ballon d’Or despite Mbappé, Yamal and Kane

During a press conference ahead of the match against Osasuna, Diego Simeone, coach of Atlético Madrid, said without hesitation that Lionel Messi was, in his view, the favorite to win the Ballon d’Or, despite the candidacies of Kylian Mbappé, Lamine Yamar and Harry Kane.

"Lionel Messi should win the Ballon d’Or, without any doubt," affirmed Diego Simeone. He added that the Argentine coach was convinced that the trophy should go back to the Argentine.

Preference based on the World Cup

It is Lionel Messi that the Argentine coach wants to see rewarded, relying especially on the World Cup and on a player's ability to remain decisive despite the years. Simeone highlighted that, at 39, Messi had proven that he could still influence big matches.

He specified that his choice was not based on a detailed comparison with Kylian Mbappé, Lamine Yamal or Harry Kane. No comparative element was provided, the preference remaining purely subjective.

A clear stance, without claiming an official prediction, was highlighted. Simeone insisted that it was a personal opinion, not an official statement from the club.

While Mbappé openly embraces his ambitions and Barça pushes Yamal, the Madrid coach reminds that Messi retains convinced supporters. He noted that the Argentine's fans remain numerous despite the voices that rise for the other candidates.

Messi's hat‑trick against Algeria, scored at 39, illustrates his ability to remain decisive. The nickname Mbapp appears in the discussions, recalling the interest generated by the young French striker.