Robert Lewandowski could finally land the Ballon d’Or that many thought he deserved to win in 2020.
The Poland international was the favorite to win the 2020 edition, but the prize was later scrapped due to the COVID pandemic.
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Lewandowski was at the peak of his powers after guiding Bayern Munich to the treble, including the Champions League final victory over Paris Saint-Germain.
He scored 55 goals in 47 games in all competitions and was widely considered a candidate for the award.
The award eluded him, but there could be some good news for the Barcelona striker as France Football, the magazine responsible for the award, is considering giving him the award many thought he deserved.
“In 2020 and 2021, I had the best years of my career,” Lewandowski recalled in a recent interview with German media Sport Bild. “Recently a friend sent me the stats. I scored 100 goals in 85 games.”
He was in the running for the award in 2021, but was edged out by serial Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi.
However, according to Sport, an investigation into Messi’s 2021 victory was opened earlier this year, following allegations that PSG had pressured France Football to favor the Argentine.
Lewandowski finished second that year, but the magazine is now said to be concerned that the investigation has had a negative effect on his reputation and is therefore considering giving the striker the 2020 award.
“Of course, I would have liked to receive the Ballon d’Or one day. It’s not that I’m angry or sad because I don’t have this trophy yet, but I have the feeling that I would could have won it either year,” added Lewandowski.
“If I received the 2020 Ballon d’Or four years later, I would not feel offended. It would be a great honor and I would accept this award.”
Meanwhile, the 35-year-old’s representatives are expected to sit down with Barcelona bosses to discuss his salary as the Catalan club look to make changes to their attack next season.
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“If I received the 2020 Ballon d’Or four years later, I would not feel offended. It would be a great honor and I would accept this award.”
Meanwhile, the 35-year-old’s representatives are expected to sit down with Barcelona bosses to discuss his salary as the Catalan club look to make changes to their attack next season.
Lewandowski’s salary is expected to rise to £26million under the terms of the contract signed two years ago, but the club are keen to renegotiate.
Barcelona are hoping to have the striker next season, but with his 36th birthday approaching, club bosses want to restructure his salary ahead of the new season.
Sports
