Robert Lewandowski reacts calmly to rival Lionel Messi’s voting behavior in the FIFA world player election.
“I didn’t do anything wrong that he can be mad at me, except for the sporting thing, that’s different, but hopefully everything was okay privately,” said Lewandowski on Tuesday. The Bayern star was named world footballer for the second time in a row in Zurich on Monday evening, but he had not received a vote from Messi.
The second-placed Argentinian from Paris Saint-Germain had voted for his PSG team-mates Neymar and Kylian Mbappé and Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema. “It was his decision, I respect that. I don’t have to say anything negative or just be angry,” says Lewandowski. The Pole, in turn, had also voted for Messi.
Messi won France Football’s Ballon d’Or last November, just ahead of Lewandowski. “Everyone knows you were the winner last year. I think France Football should still give you the award for 2020. You deserve it and you should have it at home,” Messi said at the time. “That was very nice of him,” Lewandowski replies.
Alaba: “A special honor to be in the world selection”
The national coaches and captains of the representative teams of the FIFA member associations, selected journalists and fans worldwide were equally decisive in the selection by the world governing body FIFA. They had also chosen ÖFB star David Alaba for the FIFA world selection for the first time.
The Real Madrid defender thanks all teammates and coaches at FC Bayern, ÖFB and Real as well as his family via Twitter for their support. “It’s a special honor for me to be in the world selection after this emotional year. Hard work always pays off,” explains the Viennese.
Lewandowski takes Haaland speculation easy
Meanwhile, Lewandowski is taking speculation about Erling Haaland as a possible successor at Bayern Munich loose. “I’m a patient person. I understand football, I also understand business things,” says the 33-year-old.
Haaland, who is twelve years his junior, still has a contract with league rivals Borussia Dortmund until the end of June 2024. However, due to an exit clause, he can leave the club this summer for a fee of 75 million euros. Most recently, FC Barcelona in particular was traded as a promising prospect.
Lewandowski’s contract with FC Bayern expires in the summer of 2023. In any case, the Polish national striker sees himself fit for top international performances beyond the age of 30. “I’m still getting to know my body. If I can continue to test a limit, then I’ll do it. At 33, I feel better than ever,” says the attacker when asked if he might be able to continue playing until 40.
Textquelle: © APA
to the top » COMMENTS..
User comments do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the LAOLA1 editorial team. LAOLA1 reserves the right to delete comments without giving reasons, especially if they violate criminal or civil law standards, are contrary to good morals or otherwise run counter to the reputation of LAOLA1. We refer in this context in particular to our Terms of Use. In such cases, the user cannot assert any claims. Furthermore, Sportradar Media Services GmbH reserves the right to assert claims for damages and to report criminally relevant facts.
– –
