Di Maria says Messi-Ronaldo era over but sees Ballon d’Or chance if they shine at 2026 World Cup

Former Argentina and Real Madrid star Angel Di Maria declared that the era of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo as rivals is over, stating there is no longer a Messi or a Cristiano Ronaldo in the way fans knew them for over a decade. Speaking ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Di Maria acknowledged that while the duo are not current favorites for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, a strong World Cup performance could still put them in contention for the award. Both Messi and Ronaldo are set for their sixth World Cup appearance, with Argentina and Portugal potentially meeting in the quarter-finals if they advance. Messi has won the Ballon d’Or a record eight times, Ronaldo five, with Messi’s most recent win coming in 2023 after Argentina’s World Cup triumph. Di Maria, who won the 2022 World Cup with Argentina and played alongside Ronaldo at Real Madrid, insisted that if either superstar delivers a standout tournament, they retain a strong chance at the honor. The 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony will be held outside France for the first time, taking place in London on October 26.

The shift marks a possible transition in global football’s individual accolades, opening space for emerging talents while still honoring legends who can defy expectations on sport’s biggest stage. If Messi or Ronaldo produce memorable World Cup moments, will you still view them as Ballon d’Or contenders, or does this signal a true changing of the guard?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/06/05/theres-no-messi-cristiano-ronaldo-anymore-di-maria/