Lionel Messi is not among the nominees for the 2025 Ballon d’Or, failing to make the cut for the second year in a row ― just like Cristiano Ronaldo. Instead, two Argentine teammates are in consideration for the prize.

Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez and Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister are the only Argentine representatives in the shortlist for the award given to the best male player of the season.

Meanwhile, fellow countryman and Argentina‘s star between the sticks Emiliano ‘Dibu’ Martinez is also in contention for the Lev Yashin Trophy, given to the best goalkeeper of the year.

While Messi’s absence makes the most noise, he’s not the only Argentine leader to miss out on a Ballon d’Or nomination this year. Manager Lionel Scaloni was also snubbed for the Men’s Team Coach of

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