Ballon d’Or: Lautaro Martínez reacts when Messi names a player who deserves an award

Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martínez has spoken of Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi backing him to win the 2024 Ballon d’Or.

Martinez revealed he had not discussed the Ballon d’Or with Messi after his Argentina team-mate tipped him to claim the prestigious individual prize.

Messi had claimed last week that Martinez deserved to win the award ahead of other contenders such as Vinicius Junior, Rodri, Jude Bellingham, Dani Carvajal and Kylian Mbappé.

According to the former Barcelona star, “Lautaro deserves the Ballon d’Or more than anyone else. He was the top scorer in the Copa América.”

However, reacting, Martinez told DAZN (via EuroSport):

“We didn’t talk about this award. I was glad that he returned with us to the Argentine national team. I always work hard to help the team, but individual awards mean a lot too, as it shows that you are working hard.

“First I focus on the team, and then if I get an individual award it’s also thanks to my teammates, the staff and the fans. We are a great team, everyone works in their own way to raise the bar.”