According to Goal, former Arsenal attacking midfielder Andrei Arshavin believes that Messi's outstanding performances for club and country warrant the 2026 Ballon d'Or, stating directly that awarding the prize to the Inter Miami star would provide a poetic end to his stellar career.

Russian legend backs Argentine superstar

Former Arsenal attacking midfielder Arshavin has publicly supported Messi to win the 2026 Ballon d'Or. The 39-year-old forward earned a record 17th career nomination for his performance at the 2026 World Cup, where he scored 8 goals and almost single-handedly carried Argentina to the final. At the club level, the influential captain also led Inter Miami to their first-ever MLS Cup and Leagues Cup championship, contributing 21 goals and 11 assists during that period.

"I would give the award to Messi"

When assessing this year's competitive landscape, Arshavin believes there is no clear frontrunner for this Ballon d'Or and offered a definitive judgment on who should receive football's highest individual honor. The former Russia captain told Sports.ru: "In my opinion, there is no absolute favorite for the Ballon d'Or this year. But I would give the award to Messi. He played a great World Cup, almost single-handedly dragging Argentina forward."

Veteran explains reasons for poetic tribute

Arshavin believes that despite Argentina ultimately losing to champions Spain, the veteran's continued stellar performances on both fronts fully deserve football's highest honor.

Explaining his choice, the 45-year-old Arshavin added: "It's a shame he couldn't drag the team all the way to the championship, but in any case, he played exceptionally well for both the national team and Inter Miami. After all, he also led the club to their first-ever league title. With no clear contenders, this would be the most fitting conclusion."

Historic London ceremony awaits winner

The Ballon d'Or trophy will be presented at a star-studded gala on Monday, October 26, at the London Palladium. In commemoration of the Ballon d'Or's 70th anniversary, this year's awards ceremony will break tradition by being held outside Paris for the first time. Messi faces fierce competition, with football's rising stars—Mbappé, Haaland, and Bellingham—also on the 30-man shortlist.

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