Zidane Reportedly Backs Messi for 2026 Ballon d'Or Over Mbappe
Zinedine Zidane has reportedly named Lionel Messi as his preferred winner of the 2026 Ballon d'Or, backing the Argentine ahead of fellow Frenchman Kylian Mbappe. Zidane was quoted as saying he would vote for Messi “100 times”, praising the Inter Miami forward for remaining among football’s elite at 39. Messi was reportedly included on the 30-man shortlist after a strong season for club and country. Mbappe, Harry Kane and Lamine Yamal are also being mentioned among the leading contenders. Mbappe has publicly argued that his individual performances make him deserving of the award. The Ballon d'Or ceremony is scheduled to hold in London on 26 October.
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