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PSG deny reports they used pressure to try and get Messi’s Ballon d’Or award
Paris Saint-Germain has denied allegations that they tried to pressure the organizer of the Ballon d’Or into giving Lionel Messi the prestigious honor in 2021.
Messi had joined PSG earlier that year after his long reign of success in Barcelona but was in a close contest for the top prize alongside Polish striker Robert Lewandowski.
The French club has been accused of attempting to influence those at France Football magazine, who decide the winner of the Ballon d’Or, in favor of Messi.
Le Monde reports that an ongoing legal investigation claims PSG lobbied for Messi to receive the honor by offering gifts and other benefits to Pascal Ferre, who was then editor-in-chief of France Football and responsible for organizing the Ballon d’Or.
A probe from the General Inspectorate of the National Police claims that Ferre received match tickets and a business-class flight from PSG in 2020 and 2021 when he was still in charge of France Football magazine.
Ferre, who is now the director of press and media relations for the PSG first team, denied the report, stating that he voted for Lewandowski, who was at Bayern Munich at the time of the 2021 ballot.
The 2020 edition of the award was scrapped due to the impact of Covid-19 on the football world, with Lewandowski a leading candidate if it was given out for his Bayern Munich performances.
However, Messi won the 2021 prize, his seventh of eight Ballons d’Or to date, which would have been a significant coup for PSG just months after acquiring him.
On collecting the award, the Argentinian mentioned the Polish striker he pipped to the title by 33 points. Messi said:
“I would like to mention Robert Lewandowski, it’s been a real honour to compete with you.
“Everyone knows and we agree that you were the winner last year [2020]. I think France Football should award you your [trophy last year] – you deserve it and you should have it at home.”
After the Ballon d’Or ceremony, Robert Lewandowski mentioned that Lionel Messi’s words “really touched me” and described it as “a nice moment in my career,” despite needing PSG’s Kylian Mbappe to help translate conversations between them.
Lionel Messi won the Ballon d’Or in 2021 after leaving Europe to play for MLS side Inter Miami. Meanwhile, Robert Lewandowski, who picked up the Striker of the Year award in 2021, finished second in the main Ballon d’Or race.
In 2022, Lewandowski left Bayern Munich and joined Barcelona. It remains to be seen if the 35-year-old striker can contend for the Ballon d’Or once again.
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Leroy Sane Breaks Silence On Arsenal Transfer Rumors
Leroy Sane has revealed ongoing talks with Bayern Munich about extending his contract at the Allianz Arena, signaling his reluctance to consider a return to the Premier League.
The German winger, who joined Bayern from Manchester City in 2020, is now in the final year of his current deal.
This situation has sparked interest from Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, Manchester United, and Liverpool, especially after Sane’s hesitation to commit to an extension last year.
From January, clubs outside Germany can legally initiate discussions with Sane regarding a potential transfer. However, the 28-year-old has delivered a significant setback to his suitors, expressing his preference to remain at Bayern if terms can be agreed.
Since arriving in Munich, Sane has made a strong impact, contributing 51 goals and 50 assists across 186 appearances.
Despite featuring mostly from the bench this season under Vincent Kompany, Sane has reiterated his commitment to Bayern. In an interview with BILD, he stated: “We are in talks. I feel comfortable in Munich. I feel really comfortable. Talks are very good. My focus is currently only on Bayern.”
Addressing the possibility of a Premier League return, Sane was clear about his priorities. “I follow Premier League football, but the attraction for me lies in the club where I can show my best performance, develop, and win titles. I have that at Bayern,” he said.
Although Sane has seen limited starts this season, Kompany—his former Manchester City teammate—has acknowledged the winger’s influence. Speaking after Bayern’s recent win against Benfica, Kompany praised Sane’s contribution: “Leroy changed the game, you could say that. Leroy did very well after he was subbed on.
“I’m very happy to have the quality of Leroy Sane and Michael Olise in the same position, not to forget Kingsley Coman and Serge Gnabry. They have all scored goals and contributed well so far this season.”
Manchester United and Arsenal, who were reportedly preparing to battle for Sane’s signature, may now be forced to reconsider their plans.
Both clubs were eager to secure the services of a player with proven Premier League credentials, including two league titles and a PFA Young Player of the Year award from his time at Manchester City.
BUNDESLIGA
Wins 2024 Ballon d’Or, Becomes First Man City and Spain Player Since 1960
Rodri, known for his immense influence on the field, has made history as the first-ever Manchester City player to win the Ballon d’Or and Spain’s first winner since 1960.
The Spanish midfielder, Rodrigo Hernández, has consistently been a powerhouse in midfield for both Manchester City and Spain’s national team, recently leading Spain to a European Championship victory.
He entered the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris as a frontrunner, surpassing top contender Vinicius.
Rodri’s role as a midfield anchor is crucial for his team’s success. While he excels defensively, particularly with high-pressure tactics, he is equally valuable in his offensive contributions as a primary playmaker and strategist for City.
His skill in controlling the game’s tempo and orchestrating plays cements him as one of the most pivotal players in modern football.
Rodri’s Remarkable Stats Highlight His Impact
Rodri’s influence becomes even clearer through his impressive stats: since 2023, he has accumulated more trophies with Manchester City and Spain than losses. Over the past year, he’s faced only four defeats, with a striking pattern—every City loss this year coincided with his absence due to injury. This further proves how essential Rodri is to the success of the Cityzens and their ability to secure victories.
With this prestigious win, Rodri not only adds another accolade to his collection but also solidifies his position among the all-time greats in football.
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Ballon d’Or 2024: How to Watch Ceremony and Follow Free Live Stream with Vinicius and Mbappe among Favourites
The highly anticipated Ballon d’Or ceremony, football’s most prestigious awards night, is set for Monday, October 28, in Paris. Hosted at the iconic Théâtre du Châtelet, the event guarantees a new winner for the men’s prize this year.
With football legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo absent from the 30-man shortlist, emerging stars Jude Bellingham, Rodri, and Vinícius Jr. are considered top contenders for the golden trophy.
In the women’s category, top players like Aitana Bonmatí, Caroline Graham Hansen, Mallory Swanson, Salma Paralluelo, and Ada Hegerberg are strong candidates for the top honor.
Additional awards include the Kopa Trophy for the best men’s under-21 player, the Yashin Trophy for the best goalkeepers in men’s and women’s football, as well as Club and Coach of the Year recognitions.
The ceremony promises to be an unforgettable celebration of football’s best.
When is the 2024 Ballon d’Or Ceremony?
The 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony will take place at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris on Monday, October 28, beginning at 19:45 UK time.
How to Follow the Ballon d’Or Ceremony on TNT Sports
TNT Sports and Eurosport will provide a dedicated live blog covering all ceremony highlights on October 28. Follow every moment on the TNT Sports website.
How to Stream the 2024 Ballon d’Or Ceremony
You can watch the event on our live stream page and for free on L’Equipe’s YouTube channel and website. This will give fans worldwide front-row access to this prestigious night of awards and celebrations.
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