In 2023, Lionel Messi claimed the title of the world’s best player, triumphing over Manchester City’s Erling Haaland and Paris Saint-Germain’s Kylian Mbappe. Despite his rather subdued performance throughout the year, Messi’s win triggered discussions among fans. However, Lionel Scaloni, Argentina’s manager, unequivocally asserts that there should be no doubt regarding Messi’s deserving success.

“I think the Ԁeƅɑte goes beyond football, I don’t think there is a Ԁeƅɑte between the footballer or the coach as to why he won it,” Scaloni told Marca. “If Haaland or Mbappe had won it, it would have been fine too. It’s media stuff. Debating why Messi won it when football people vote is strange.”

Messi’s accolade came despite a relatively quiet 2023, following his pivotal role in guiding Argentina to the World Cup in 2022. After departing PSG for Inter Miami, he led them to Leagues Cup success, although they fell short of securing a playoff spot in MLS. In contrast, Haaland played a crucial role in Manchester City’s triumphant campaigns in the Champions League, Premier League, and FA Cup, while Mbappe contributed to PSG’s Ligue 1 title victory.

The 36-year-old Messi is poised to return to action next week as his Inter Miami team faces Al-Nassr, captained by his old гιᴠal Cristiano Ronaldo. Following this, the Florida-based club will kιϲk off their MLS campaign with a match against Real Salt Lake in late February.