Revealed: What Lionel Messi really thought about Karim Benzema winning the 2022 Ballon d'Or

• Messi speaks on Benzema's Ballon d'Or win
• Frenchman lifted trophy last year
• Benzema moved to Saudi in the summer

WHAT HAPPENED? Former Real Madrid forward, Benzema, won the Ballon d'Or in 2022, ahead of former Barcelona forward Lionel Messi and others, for his exploits in the season prior, helping Los Blancos win their 14th Champions League title. Messi has now revealed what he think of the win in a new documentary 'Ballon d'Or 2022: the race towards eternity' to be broadcast by L'Equipe.

WHAT THEY SAID: "I think Benzema was a fair winner. He deserves it for the great year he had and what he has been doing throughout his career. He is a wonderful player and I think it is important for him and for soccer that he has this recognition," said Messi.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Both Benzema and Messi left Europe this summer, with the former moving to Saudi club Al-Ittihad while the latter joined MLS side Inter Miami.

The Argentine World Cup-winning captain helped Inter Miami to a Leagues Cup title this season and is expected to win his eighth Ballon d'Or later this month. On the other hand, the former Lyon man has scored seven goals in 12 games for his new club and is the captain of his side.

IN TWO PHOTOS:

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WHAT NEXT FOR BENZEMA? The Frenchman will face Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya up next in the AFC Champions League on 23rd October.