“He is worthy of the Ballon d'Or” – Lionel Messi’s teammate backed to win prestigious award next week in surprising claim by manager

Inter Milan manager Simone Inzaghi has stated his case for why Lautaro Martinez deserves to rival his Argentina teammate Lionel Messi for the 2023 Ballon d'Or.

Martinez is among the nominees to win the illustrious award although he's not regarded as one of the favorites. The Nerazzurri striker enjoyed a superb 2022-23 season at club and country.

The 26-year-old bagged 28 goals and 11 assists in 57 games across competitions for Inter. His side won the Coppa Italia and made it to the final of the UEFA Champions League.

However, the Ballon d'Or looks to be heading to his Argentina captain Lionel Messi for a record eighth time. The Inter Miami superstar was heroic during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, bagging seven goals and three assists in seven games as La Abiceleste triumphed in Qatar.

Still, Inzaghi argued that Martinez's exploits last season deserve more credit and that he merits being on the podium at the awards ceremony on October 30. The Italian coach said (via TNT Sports):

"(Martinez deserves it) because of the path he has taken and the trophies he has won, he is worthy of the Ballon d'Or. He has to be there that night, I don't think he will win but he has to continue like this."

Martinez struggled to earn a starting role in Argentina's side during their glorious World Cup campaign. He failed to conjure up a goal contribution while playing in the international tournament in Qatar.

Lionel Messi and Martinez are joined in the list of Ballon d'Or nominees by two of their national team teammates. Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez and Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez have also been nominated.

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Lautaro Martinez insists his Ballon d'Or rival Lionel Messi has helped him become a better player

Lautaro Martinez has learned a lot from his Argentina skipper.

Martinez credited his rich vein of form last season to Lionel Messi of whom he claims he learned a lot. He explained how he felt he'd grown mentally after becoming Inter captain (via AlbicelesteTalk):

"This season I have grown so much mentally. I have teammates who help me grow, I learned a lot from Leo Messi, talking to him, he helped me in everything. Carrying that World Cup in your arms is special, I learned a lot about the leadership from him there."

Messi put Argentina on his back with inspired performances in Qatar that have made him the heavy favorite to win the Ballon d'Or. He not only displayed goalscoring acumen but also his leadership qualities.