Rabat – Former Morocco captain Mehdi Benatia has questioned Lionel Messi’s fifth-place finish in the 2026 Ballon d’Or rankings, arguing that the Argentine star did not deserve such a high position despite his impressive World Cup performance.
Speaking on the French YouTube program Les Affranchis, Benatia expressed surprise at Messi’s ranking, particularly when compared with players competing in European football.
According to French outlet Foot Mercato, the 39-year-old former defender questioned whether Messi’s performances with Inter Miami justified placing him ahead of Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise, who finished ninth.
“He spends the entire year in Miami and then finishes fifth? Have European football fans watched him more than Michael Olise, who finished ninth?” Benatia said.
The former Juventus and Bayern Munich defender acknowledged Messi’s outstanding performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup but maintained that his fifth-place finish remained difficult to justify.
“Of course, he was exceptional at the World Cup, and the entire team plays for him. All respect to him. He is almost our age, but how can you tell me Messi is fifth?” he added.
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Benatia also questions Rodri’s ranking
Benatia’s criticism extended beyond Messi to Manchester City midfielder Rodri, who finished fourth in the Ballon d’Or voting.
The former Atlas Lions captain questioned how the Spanish international secured such a high position despite missing a significant part of the 2025-2026 season through injury.
“How can he be fourth when he only played four months throughout the season?” Benatia asked.
Rodri nevertheless enjoyed major success on the international stage, helping Spain win the 2026 FIFA World Cup and earning the tournament’s Best Player award.
His achievements with the Spanish national team appeared to carry considerable weight in the Ballon d’Or voting, despite his limited playing time at club level.
Messi’s World Cup performance fuels Ballon d’Or debate
Messi delivered another remarkable international performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, contributing directly to 12 goals through eight goals and four assists.
The Argentine captain led his national team to the final, where they suffered a 1-0 defeat against Spain.
His performances raised expectations that he could claim a record-extending ninth Ballon d’Or, particularly after playing a decisive role in Argentina’s journey to the final.
However, the award ultimately went to England international Harry Kane, who claimed the prestigious individual prize for the first time in his career.
Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé finished second, followed by Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal in third place. Rodri and Messi completed the top five.
Despite Messi’s international achievements, Benatia’s comments have reopened the debate over how individual performances, club competitions, and international tournaments should influence the Ballon d’Or rankings.
Benatia, who represented Morocco in 66 international matches, enjoyed a successful playing career across Europe, featuring for clubs including Roma, Bayern Munich, Juventus, and Marseille.
His latest remarks add another voice to the discussion surrounding the criteria used to recognize football’s best performers.
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