Lautaro Martínez did not hide his anger after the final ranking of the 2025 Ballon d'Or was announced. The Inter captain and key player for the Argentina National Team stated that the recognition he receives doesn't reflect his performance in recent years.
In an interview with France Football, the striker was blunt: "I aspire to be more recognized, but I'm very happy with my career at 28 years old. There's no doubt that I'm among the five best strikers in the world for what I've done in recent years and sometimes I think I'm underrated."
Meanwhile, the Bahía Blanca native appreciated being among the 30 nominees, although he admitted that he expected more: "I understand that being among the 30 Ballon d'Or candidates is already a reward, but I dream of winning it." He made his frustration with the final position in the voting clear: "I expected to finish higher in the ranking after the season I had, but I respect the judges."
Winner of several titles, with decisive goals and a consistent level both at Inter and with the National Team, El Toro has established himself among the world elite, although he feels that he still doesn't receive the place he deserves. Angry but ambitious, he is already focused on what's next: continuing to prove why he is considered one of the five best strikers on the planet.
When is the Ballon d'Or and who are the nominated Argentinians
France Football magazine will present the award on Monday, September 22, 2025 at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, France. Among the nominated Argentinians are Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez (best goalkeeper), Alexis Mac Allister and Lautaro Martínez himself (both for best player of the year).
