Atletico Madrid head coach Diego Simeone has unequivocally stated that Lionel Messi deserves to win the Ballon d'Or this season. Simeone highlighted Messi's exceptional performance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where he led Argentina to victory despite being 39 years old. Messi finished second in the Golden Boot race behind Kylian Mbappe. The Argentine legend faces stiff competition for the award from players like Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappe, and Rodri. Messi has also shown impressive form for his club, Inter Miami, over the past year. The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled for October 26 in London, where a win would mark Messi's record-extending ninth triumph.

Furthermore, Argentine Football Association president Claudio Tapia has confirmed a farewell match for Lionel Messi on October 6 in Argentina. The event will invite Argentina's 2022 World Cup-winning squad to celebrate the captain's illustrious career.