Why is Giorgio Chiellini one of the contenders to win the 2021 Ballon d’Or?
According to Shakhtar Donetsk manager Roberto De Zerbi, Gioegino Chiellini could challenge for France Football’s sought-after award.
Chiellini has received endorsements from Maurizio Sarri and Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola after an impressive year for both club and country.
The 42-year-old De Zerbi pointed out that Chiellini could follow in the footsteps of Fabio Cannavaro by winning the award.
“If you look at the trophies he’s [Jorginho] won, he deserves it,” De Zerbi said.
“He is such a smart midfielder. When I was at Sassuolo, I used to tell Maxime Lopez to watch him closely because he sees football one hour before the others.
“You won’t notice him many times, but he was one of Italy’s key players with Gigio Donnarumma, Leo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini.
“However, Messi remains Messi and, until he plays, will be among the candidates.
“Fabio Cannavaro won the Ballon d’Or in the past, so I don’t see why Chiellini should not win it for the spirit he had at the Euros.”
Lionel Messi is still the favorite to win the prestigious award after winning the Copa America 2021. This was his first ever international trophy with Argentina.
Robert Lewandowski is so close to the 33 year old in the award race. Afterall, he was the top scorer of 2020/21 season.
