Lionel Messi: Argentina captain emerges as clear favourite to win Ballon d’Or ahead of Erling Haaland

Erling Haaland is set to miss out on the 2022/2023 Ballon d'Or to Inter Miami and Argentina playmaker Lionel Messi, according to Goal.

The shortlist for the elusive prize will be announced on Wednesday, September 6 with Messi and Haaland expected to be the two main contenders.

Messi is now reportedly in pole position to win his eighth Golden Ball after a remarkable 2022, capped with the ultimate footballing prize — the FIFA World Cup.

Despite a disappointing second half of the season with PSG, Messi's incredible performance in Qatar where he scored 7 goals (including two in the final) is likely to push the award in his favour.

Haaland was pivotal as Manchester City secured a historic treble, scoring 52 goals in 53 games. 

However, a run of just one goal in 8 games at the end of the season may have swayed the voting in Messi's favour.

The award will be held in Paris on October 30, 2023.