Will Lionel Messi Win the 2018 Ballon d'Or: Revisiting an Award Decisive Moment

As Lionel Messi's career continues to showcase unparalleled skill and impact on the football world, the question of whether he should have received the 2018 Ballon d'Or remains a topic of discussion among football enthusiasts. This award, which is given to the best football player of the year, came with a significant twist in 2018, as Luka Modri?, from a rival club, ended Messi's consecutive reign. Let's delve into the debate and explore the reasons behind Messi's potential win during his most recent Ballon d'Or campaign.

Messi's Fifth Ballon d'Or in 2018

On December 3, 2018, Lionel Messi was awarded the esteemed Ballon d'Or, winning his fifth prestigious award in the history of the sport. This victory marked his fifth consecutive Ballon d'Or win, cementing his status as one of the greatest players of all time. While the award is given annually, it was particularly noteworthy in 2018 as it was the first time in over a decade that the honor did not go to either Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo. Instead, Croatia midfielder Luka Modri? claimed the trophy, marking a significant shift in the dynamics of the award.

Messi’s Impressive Season with FC Barcelona

Messi's fifth Ballon d'Or win came after a stellar year with FC Barcelona. In 2018, Messi helped his team secure victories in the La Liga and the Copa del Rey, demonstrating his enduring influence on the pitch. Throughout the year, Messi displayed exceptional skill and determination, further solidifying his claim to the award. Despite this, the voting saw a unique twist, as Luka Modri?'s performance was recognized as equally impressive, leading to a close yet decisive outcome.

Should Messi Have Won in 2018?

The debate surrounding whether Messi deserved the 2018 Ballon d'Or is layered. Many argue that Messi's performance should have been enough to secure the award. It is undisputed that Messi scored the most goals in the year, far surpassing the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Mohamed Salah. Even the closest contender, Luka Modri?, was no match for Messi in terms of goal-scoring. As a diehard Real Madrid fan, the conclusion is clear: Messi's superior performance warranted the award.

Miracle Comebacks and Struggles

Messi's consistent scoring prowess is a testament to his skill and resilience. When compared to more recent players, Messi's record for goal-scoring remains unparalleled. Even in a weaker Bar?a team, Messi managed to support his squad, significantly impacting the team's performance. His presence was instrumental in stabilizing the team, preventing a worse outcome than their eventual 6th place finish. The remarkable influence of Messi on the team's offensive performance further supports his claims to the 2018 Ballon d'Or.

Copa America and International Success

It is impossible to ignore Messi's exceptional performance in the Copa America. In 2018, Messi was not only the top scorer but also the most influential player, creating countless chances and setting records. His unmatched dribbling skills, perfect set-pieces, and exceptional passing ability were evident throughout the tournament. Messi's individual brilliance at the international level cannot be overstated, providing the ultimate evidence for his candidacy.

Future Prospects for Messi's Ballon d'Or

Considering Messi's ongoing dominance and recent performances, there is strong reason to believe that he could secure his 7th Ballon d'Or in the future. His consistency, leadership, and exceptional playmaking continue to set him apart. While the 2020 Ballon d'Or went to Robert Lewandowski, Messi's 2021 performances, especially during the Copa America, argue strongly for his inclusion in the running once again. His exceptional dribbling, set-piece prowess, and goal-scoring ability, combined with his unmatched leadership in both club and international football, make him the clear favorite.

In conclusion, the 2018 Ballon d'Or was a significant moment in the award's history, marking the end of Messi's consecutive wins and highlighting the rise of Luka Modri?. However, Messi's overall contribution and performances throughout his career indicate that he remains a formidable candidate for the prestigious award. The future holds promise, and there is ample reason to believe that Lionel Messi will once again stand on the Ballon d'Or podium.