Bayern Munich star striker Robert Lewandowski has denied having any issues with Lionel Messi after he missed out on the Ballon d’Or. The Polish forward claimed that he is grateful that Messi named him as the rightful winner of last season’s Ballon d’Or as the award got cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Paris Saint Germain star has won his seventh Ballon d’Or for his exceptional performances with his former club, Barcelona and Argentina. Messi guide the Albiceleste to the historic Copa America and hence was in pole position to win the prestigious award.
However many footballers felt that this time Lewandowski deserved the Ballon d’Or over the PSG forward. Some even raised questions over the judgement of the journalists who played a major part in casting their votes for the award.
However, Lewandowski in his conversation with DailyMail cleared the air and claimed that he has no issues with Messi. Meanwhile reports in Spain suggested that the Polish forward was not pleased with Messi winning the award ahead of him. They also claimed that Lewandowski was not happy with Messi’s empty words at the ceremony.
“My statement, which I made in an interview with a Polish TV / Via Play broadcaster, is currently being misinterpreted,” the Bayern striker told the English publication. “I never said that Lionel Messi’s words were not sincere. On the contrary: Lionel Messi’s speech at the event in Paris, in which he expressed that, in his opinion, I deserved the Ballon d’Or 2020, really touched me and made me happy.”
He then explained how he was happy to receive recognition from Messi and would feel honoured if France Football actually paid heed to his words and handed him the Ballon d’Or for the year 2020, which they previously cancelled.
“With my statement, I just wanted to express that I would of course be very happy if Messi’s words were heard. I respect and appreciate Lionel Messi beyond measure and once again congratulate him on winning the Ballon d’Or 2021.”
Messi was ecstatic as he received his seventh Ballon d’Or from his best mate, Luis Suarez. However, he made sure to acknowledge the efforts of Robert Lewandowski who fought hard for a second straight season and pushed him right till the end only to come second best. However, the PSG forward made a plea to the organisers to hand him the award for 2020 as he was simply sensational.
But it remains to be seen if France Football takes a u-turn and hands, Lewandowski, the award. But in all situations, Lewandowski clears out that he has no issues with Lionel Messi.
