FC Barcelona midfielder Ilkay Gündogan made his Ballon d’or 2023 prediction as he named his two favourites to win the top prize.
With the 2023/24 season looming up, Ballon d’or winner is among the major uncertainties as there is no a clear favourite like Karim Benzema in 2022.
Knowing that the award is no longer given on a calendar year but on a regular season basis, Erling Haaland and Lionel Messi are among the biggest favourites.
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The Norwegian won the treble in his first season with Manchester City being the top scorer in Champions league and the Premier League.
On the other hand, the current Inter Miami star lifted the World Cup trophy in Qatar is December 2022 which gives him an edge over other players.
Speaking on his favourites, Gündogan said no one deserves the award than Messi and Haaland.
“I think that the Ballon d’or should go to Lionel Messi or Erling Haaland. I don’t see anyone else near them. I’m glad I’m not the one to decide, but both of them deserve it”, he told Mundo Deportivo.
As a reminder, Ballon d’or 2023 ceremony will be held in Paris on October 30.