Inter Miami coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino has mentioned he believes Vinícius Júnior deserves to win the Ballon d’Or award however nonetheless considers Lionel Messi to be “the perfect” participant on the planet.
Vinícius, 24, loved an outstanding season at Actual Madrid and, together with Manchester Metropolis midfielder Rodri, is without doubt one of the high candidates to choose up the distinguished particular person trophy in Monday’s ceremony in Paris.
“It [the Ballon d’Or] has by no means been one thing that caught my consideration, nor was it clear to me whether or not the award is for the perfect on the planet or of the 12 months,” Martino mentioned.
“Vinícius Júnior in all probability has the advantage [of being the best last season], though in the event you ask me who’s the perfect proper now, it is Messi.”
Vinicius scored 24 objectives and offered 11 assists in all competitions for LaLiga champions Madrid, together with his workforce’s second aim in final season’s Champions League closing win in opposition to Borussia Dortmund.
Messi, 37, was omitted from the nominations for the prize for the primary time since 2003.
The Argentina captain has received it a file eight occasions in his profession.
Miami’s veteran defender Jordi Alba mentioned he was stunned his former Barcelona teammate was not thought of for this 12 months’s honour.
“I’ve by no means given a lot significance to the Ballon d’Or, however for me Leo all the time needs to be there,” Alba mentioned. “He continues to make a distinction, he’s the perfect on the planet indubitably when being on the highest stage.”
Messi is among the many finalists for Main League Soccer’s MVP award for this season.
He’s contemplating the main candidate having scored 20 objectives and offered 16 assists in simply 19 video games.
