Ballon d'Or

2021 Ballon d’Or: Lionel Messi’s votes for Kopa Trophy won by Pedri, revealed

A few days after the 2021 Ballon d'Or ceremony, in which Lionel Messi won his seventh award, the PSG superstar's votes for the Kopa Trophy were revealed. Check out which playersthe Argentine has chosen for the prize that Barcelona wonderkid Pedri eventually won.

Lionel Messi during the 2021 Ballon d'Or ceremony, where he won the coveted award while Pedri received the Kopa Trophy.
© Aurelien Meunier/Getty ImagesLionel Messi during the 2021 Ballon d'Or ceremony, where he won the coveted award while Pedri received the Kopa Trophy.

Following several months of wait, the 2021 Ballon d’Or is alreadypart of the past. The speculation ended on Monday, November 29, when Lionel Messi received his seventh award to continue extending his legacy.

In the previous weeks, a number of leaks went viral on social media while reports had already anticipated the PSG star would get the upper hand over Robert Lewandowski, something that didn’t please many people.

However, besides bringing home another trophy, Messi was part of the jury that voted for the 2021 Kopa Trophy winner, which eventually was former Barcelona teammate Pedri. Recently, a report revealed the Argentine’s votes.

Advertisement

Lionel Messi’s votes for 2021 Kopa Trophy

As one of the 32 Ballon d’Or winners,Messiis part of the jury that votes for the Kopa Trophy which is given to the best U-21 player of the year. Argentine outlet Infobae has reported that the 34-year-oldhas selected Pedri in first place with three points.

Meanwhile, he chose Paris Saint-Germain teammate Nuno Mendes in second place with two votes, while his podium was completed by English sensation Jude Bellingham of Borussia Dortmund, who collected one point.

Advertisement

Pedri looked like a no-brainer choice for thisaward after establishinghimself immediately in the Barcelona starting lineup before heearned an important spot in the Spain national team. Messi witnessed his fast rise closely, so it shouldn’t be a surpriseif he voted him first.

Before this report came out, Pedri hadshownrespect for Leo when he received the Kopa Trophy, thanking the former Barca captain for helping him during their time together at Camp Nou. With Messi’sblessing, the future looks even brighter for the 19-year-old.

Advertisement
ALSO READ
When are Senegal and Morocco playing for the AFCON 2025 final?
Soccer

When are Senegal and Morocco playing for the AFCON 2025 final?

Albacete upset Real Madrid in 2026 Copa del Rey: What’s the market value difference between both teams?
Soccer

Albacete upset Real Madrid in 2026 Copa del Rey: What’s the market value difference between both teams?

In what division do Albacete play and how many times have Real Madrid lost to a lower tier team?
Soccer

In what division do Albacete play and how many times have Real Madrid lost to a lower tier team?

Are Real Madrid out of 2026 Copa del Rey after shocking 3-2 loss to Albacete?
Soccer

Are Real Madrid out of 2026 Copa del Rey after shocking 3-2 loss to Albacete?

Better Collective Logo