De Paul backs Messi for record ninth Ballon d’Or despite Mbappe and Yamal rivalry

Rodrigo De Paul has dismissed the debate surrounding Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal by insisting Lionel Messi should win the Ballon d’Or for a record ninth time.

The Inter Miami and Argentina midfielder believes Messi’s performance at the most recent World Cup places him beyond comparison, even though the Argentina captain is now 39 years old.

Messi played a decisive role in Argentina’s run to the final, scoring eight goals and providing four assists in eight matches. His contribution was described as exceptional as he led the team towards another major international achievement.

The Argentina forward added another landmark to his career on Thursday, lifting the 49th trophy of his career after winning the Champions of Champions title.

The latest Ballon d’Or discussion has centred on Mbappe, the Real Madrid forward, and Yamal, Barcelona’s highly rated young player. De Paul, however, gave his support without hesitation to his long-time team-mate when asked who should receive the award.

“For me, there is no possible debate,” De Paul said. “In a year when there is a World Cup, nobody has ever done, and nobody will ever do, what Messi did. And he was 39 years old.”

He added: “He competed against the strongest players from different eras and became the best player at the World Cup. There is no doubt about that.”

De Paul’s comments underline his belief that Messi’s influence at the World Cup should outweigh the claims of the other leading candidates. The Argentina midfielder considers the achievement unique, particularly given Messi’s age at the time of the tournament.

Messi could now have the opportunity to add another individual honour to an already record-breaking career when the winner of the prestigious award is announced on 26 October. He is seeking a ninth Ballon d’Or title.