With reports suggesting that FC Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi will not be among the top three finalists for the 2018 Ballon d’Or, a high-profile figure believes the accolade will lose its value.
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There has been contrasting reports as to who will be among the final three for the award, though a common theme has been the absence of Messi’s name.
Despite winning both LaLiga and Copa del Rey, and the Pichichi award for finishing as the top scorer in LaLiga last season, many believe the Argentine has no chance of winning the accolade.
Former Spain and Real Madrid manager Vicente del Bosque does not understand how Messi has been overlooked, insisting the prize will lose its importance without the 31-year-old.
"I am very surprised that Messi isn't there," he said to Marca.
"I think it (the award) loses all value if he is not leading the best players in the world.
"It is, at the very least, a little strange."
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Messi has won the award five times in his career, as has Cristiano Ronaldo – one of the favourites for this year’s Ballon d’Or.
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