Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister has backed Lionel Messi to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, insisting he would vote for his fellow Argentine if he had the chance.
Messi has been included among the 30 nominees for this year’s prestigious individual award after another impressive campaign with Inter Miami and Argentina. He is seeking a record ninth Ballon d’Or, having already won the prize eight times.
Mac Allister believes Messi deserves to remain in contention despite the strong competition from several other world-class players.
Asked whether Messi has a chance of winning the award, Mac Allister said: “Honestly, yes. I’ve always said that Leo is the best player in history, and I think everyone agrees with that.”
The Liverpool midfielder added that Messi’s presence on the shortlist automatically gives him an opportunity to win the award.
“So, whenever he is in the running, naturally, he has a chance to win. I hope it happens,” he said.
Mac Allister, however, acknowledged that the competition is strong. Several top players have been nominated following outstanding performances for their clubs and countries.
The 2026 shortlist includes major names such as Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Lamine Yamal and Rodri. Kane is among the leading contenders after a remarkable campaign with Bayern Munich and England.
Mac Allister stressed that the award should ultimately go to the player who deserves it most.
“But it’s also true that there are many players with incredible talent, and in the end, the important thing is that the best player wins,” he said.
However, when asked who he would personally choose, the Liverpool star made his preference clear.
“As for me? If you ask me, my vote would definitely go to Messi,” he added.
Messi’s nomination means he remains a major figure in the Ballon d’Or conversation at the age of 39. The 2026 ceremony is scheduled to take place in London on October 26.
