Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappe has explained why Lionel Messi deserved to win this year's Ballon d'Or ahead of Erling Haaland and himself.
The Argentine forward won his eighth Ballon d'Or last month, beating out competition from Haaland and Mbappe who finished in second and third respectively.
Read: Messi: These young players need to learn respect
There was a lot of backlash from parts of the media as many felt Haaland deserved to win after his 52 goals helped Manchester City win the UEFA Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup.
Mbappe reveals he knew Messi would win the award after Argentina defeated France in the 2022 FIFA World Cup final on penalties.
"As I said, I am not someone that is afraid. I have no problem, the ranking is what it is," Mbappe told reporters, as per Goal.
"Messi deserves it. When Messi wins the World Cup, Messi has to win the Ballon d'Or. He's one of the best players in history, if not the best.
"(Erling) Haaland had a great season, me too... but next to winning a World Cup, it doesn't weigh much.
"On the night of 18th December I knew that I had lost World Cup… and Ballon d’Or too. Leo deserved it.”
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