Former Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale feels the performance in the upcoming Copa America and the EURO will be a key to winning the Ballon d’Or. As it happened last time, Argentine legend Lionel Messi received the prestigious accolade for the record-extending eighth time on the back of his FIFA World Cup triumph. The Real Madrid duo– Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr are tipped to be the front-runners in the Balon d’Or race this year.
Both players have played a pivotal role in securing Real Madrid’s 36th La Liga title this season. They have also excelled in the Champions League, taking their team to the final. Real Madrid will look to claim their 15th title when they square off against Borussia Dortmund at the Wembley Stadium in London on June 2.
Keeping aside the club’s achievements, Bale wants Bellingham and Vinicius Jr to demonstrate their quality at the international level. Bellingham has been called up in the England national team, slated to feature in the EURO. Meanwhile, Vinicius will jet off to the United States soon to represent Brazil in the Copa America.
During a recent chat with the PA news agency, Bale was asked if he considered Bellingham as a contender for the Ballon d’Or. In response, the Welsh international said, “Of course. Having a major international tournament is going to play a big part in winning that trophy. The Copa America is on as well, so I guess there’s a lot to play for because to win the Ballon d’Or you need to win team trophies,” as quoted by Goal.com.
Bale, who spent nine seasons with Real Madrid, further referred to the situation of Lionel Messi, who netted seven goals and provided three assists at the 2022 Qatar World Cup to clinch the Golden Ball. “If there’s an international tournament you have to provide on that stage as well, like Messi did a couple of years ago. Obviously, there’s a lot to prove, but he’s (Bellingham) done a lot of the hard work already,” Bale said.
Before jetting off to England for the Champions League final, Bellingham and Vinicius have yet to play the final La Liga game against Real Betis. The match will be held at the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid on May 26.
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