Messi’s Heartfelt Gesture: Eighth Ballon d’Or finds a Home at FC Barcelona

Lionel Messi’s unwavering love for FC Barcelona has once again been highlighted by a remarkable gesture. Despite winning his eighth Ballon d’Or in October, primarily recognizing his triumph in the 2022 World Cup with Argentina, Messi chose not to keep the prestigious award. Instead, he generously decided to gift it to FC Barcelona, where it will now join the collection at the Camp Nou museum.

This gracious act took place even though Messi earned the accolade during his tenure with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).

The unveiling of the eighth Ballon d’Or behind a glass display in the club’s museum was captured in a video shared on social media.

Notably, Messi’s gesture stands out as a testament to his enduring connection and gratitude towards Barcelona, despite his recent stint with PSG.

During the Ballon d’Or ceremony, Messi expressed his thanks to Argentina, teammates, family, friends, and Inter Miami but made no mention of his time with the Parisian club.

His statement included, «I’m not sure the Parisians would want me to present the Ballon d’Or at the Parc. My time in Paris didn’t go as I hoped, for various reasons».

This comment adds to previous critiques aimed at PSG since Messi’s departure for the MLS side, Inter Miami.