In what has become a polarizing decision within the football community, Lionel Messi’s inclusion in the shortlist for FIFA’s The Best award has been met with sharp criticism from certain quarters. Journalist Edu Aguirre of El Chiringuito has vocally expressed his disapproval, calling the decision “a disgrace” and “disrespectful to people who follow football.” This controversy comes amidst Messi’s eventful year where he showcased his enduring brilliance at both club and international levels, yet also faced moments of unexpected underperformance.
Messi’s 2024: A Mixed Bag of Brilliance and Disappointment
At 37, Messi continues to defy the constraints of age, having played a pivotal role in Argentina’s Copa America victory and Inter Miami’s successful MLS campaign, which saw them lift the Supporters’ Shield. His individual stats for the year include a commendable tally of 24 goals and 14 assists across 30 matches in all competitions. However, the season wasn’t devoid of setbacks. Messi’s performance in the MLS playoffs left much to be desired as Miami was ousted in the first round by Atlanta United, despite his efforts.
The highlight of Messi’s season was perhaps less about his goal-scoring prowess and more about his leadership and ability to inspire his team in crucial moments. Yet, the critics, including Aguirre, argue that his inclusion in the FIFA shortlist seems more a nod to his past glories, particularly his 2022 World Cup win, rather than his current form. Aguirre’s blunt statement to TNT Sports highlights this sentiment sharply: “We have been paying tribute to Messi for winning a World Cup, it’s a disgrace.”
The Omission of Lautaro Martinez: A Glaring Oversight?
Adding to the controversy is the exclusion of Lautaro Martinez from the shortlist, despite having a stellar season with Inter Milan and playing a crucial role in Argentina’s recent triumphs. Martinez’s impressive stats of 27 goals and seven assists in 44 appearances helped secure the Serie A title for his club, making his omission even more questionable. The contrast between his and Messi’s contributions this year offers a stark juxtaposition in terms of recognition at the highest level.
Comparison with Other Nominees
Messi’s nomination sits alongside other football heavyweights such as Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr., and the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, Rodri from Manchester City. This grouping further intensifies the debate as it brings into question the criteria and consistency of FIFA’s selection process. While Messi’s legacy is undisputed, the inclusion of such names raises discussions about the balance between rewarding current form versus lifetime achievements.
As the football world continues to debate Messi’s nomination, the core of the discussion revolves around the criteria for such prestigious awards. Should they primarily honor a player’s legacy or should current form prevail? Messi’s career is a testament to sustained excellence, yet as the reactions to this nomination show, even the brightest stars are not immune to scrutiny. This scenario will likely prompt a broader evaluation of awarding processes in football, as fans and pundits alike seek a balance that respects both historical impact and present-day performance.
I am a writer with a passion for technology and gaming. I write about a variety of subjects, including Esports, Games, Shows, and Sports. I create engaging and informative content for Hiptoro.