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#1. Lionel Messi
Once again, Barcelona legend Lionel Messi will fight Cristiano Ronaldo for the status of the best player in the world this year. The duo shared the last 10 editions of the Ballon d'Or between each other (5 apiece) and their intense rivalry is set to continue with the race for the award getting hotter every day.
The Argentine had a decent campaign last season, bagging an incredible 44 goals and 18 assists in all competitions as well as helping La Blaugrana to clinch both the La Liga title and the Copa Del Rey trophy during the campaign.
Messi has also begun the new season in a spectacular form leading Barcelona to win the Supercopa de Espana recently while also scoring twice in 2 La Liga appearances to secure a perfect start for the Catalan giants. Without doubts, the Argentine remains Ronaldo's greatest rival for the award this year.
