11.4 C
Manchester
Thursday, October 16, 2025
Other SportsMessi wins 8th Ballon d’Or in what will be his last as...

Messi wins 8th Ballon d’Or in what will be his last as Haaland and Bellingham take home awards

Lionel Messi thinks his remarkable run of Ballon d’Or success is over after claiming the trophy for the eighth time in Paris last night.

The 36-year-old won the most prestigious individual award in football once again after another glittering year that saw him lift the World Cup for Argentina in Qatar.

Inter Miami forward Messi accepts he is coming towards the end of his career and, now plying his trade in MLS and without another World Cup in which to show his skills on a global stage until 2026, knows it is time to pass the baton on to the next generation of talent.

He said: “Being world champion was fantastic. 

“But the truth is I’ve never really got used to receiving awards and being on the stage like this.

“Slowly, I have got used to it a bit more since winning it for the first time in 2009. 

“I think today is the last time I will win it, so it feels calmer, and I will enjoy it in a different way.”

The night saw youngsters Jude Bellingham and Erling Haaland pick up awards for best under-21 player and top goalscorer, respectively. Haaland also was runner-up for the biggest prize of them all.

Could we be seeing the future Ballon d’Or winners here? Messi continued to hint at not knowing how much longer he will be playing the beautiful game. He also said:

“I couldn’t imagine having the career that I’ve had.

“Everything that I’ve achieved. The fortune I’ve had playing for the best team in the world, the best team in history. It’s nice to win these individual trophies. 

“To win the Copa America and then the World Cup, to get it done is amazing.

“I’m proud of the career I’ve had. I’ve enjoyed football all my life, and soon I’ll enjoy it from the other side.

“I don’t know for how much longer I’ll play, but I plan to enjoy it.

“I can’t put a number on it as things can change very quickly from day to day in football. But I know that day is getting closer and closer.”

Meanwhile, this was also the first award without the inclusion of Cristiano Ronaldo for the first time since 2003.

Solomon Shehata
Solomon Shehata
Solomon Shehata is an avid sports betting analyst with a keen eye for game dynamics. With a keen eye for sports like football, tennis, horse racing, and many more, Solomon has had his articles published across many different sites and platforms.
Latest

Fire festival returns to light up Rochdale with displays, ice rink and Christmas market

The countdown to Christmas begins in Rochdale next month with the return of the spectacular Ignite Fire Festival and magical family entertainment leading up...

How different indexes reflect the balance between growth and stability

When people talk about “the market,” they often reference one of the major stock indexes — but not all indexes are created equal. Each...

RentX Launch Poised to Change Private Transport Booking in the US

A new platform has arrived with the ambition to transform the way Americans organise private transport. From stylish wedding cars and sleek limousines to party...

Eight Engines Shortlisted for Prestigious GMCC Small Business of the Year Award

Manchester’s own video marketing specialists, Eight Engines, have been shortlisted for the Small Business of the Year Award by the Greater Manchester Chamber of...
Subscribe to our newsletter
Business Manchester will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and marketing.
Don't miss

Transform Femme Launch Marks Major Step Forward in Women’s Health Services

Transform, the UK’s foremost clinic for cosmetic and elective healthcare, has launched Transform Femme, an ambitious new initiative designed to deliver exceptional care for...

Fire festival returns to light up Rochdale with displays, ice rink and Christmas market

The countdown to Christmas begins in Rochdale next month with the return of the spectacular Ignite Fire Festival and magical family entertainment leading up...

Bury’s Emm Bee Motorhomes to Showcase Northern Innovation at the UK’s Biggest Leisure Vehicle Event

Bury dealership joins national line-up at the Motorhome and Caravan Show 2025 in Birmingham One of Greater Manchester’s best-known motorhome dealers, Emm Bee Motorhomes, is...

More than half of Brits feel overworked in their jobs, new data reveals

New statistics released this week show that millions of Brits feel overworked in their job, struggling to maintain a healthy work/life balance. According to a...

More News

F1 Australian Grand Prix 2025: Report, result, highlights as Norris savours ‘stressful’ win

Lando Norris praised McLaren's "amazing car" after overcoming unpredictable conditions to beat reigning champion Max Verstappen and win the F1 Australian Grand Prix 2025...

India vs Australia: Preview, expected lineups, how to watch on TV and prediction for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

India vs Australia: The State of Play India will be targeting a third consecutive appearance in the final when they face Australia in the first...

New Zealand vs India: Preview, expected lineups, how to watch on TV and prediction for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

New Zealand vs India: The State of Play Two teams in excellent form meet on Sunday when New Zealand and India collide in their final...