Youngest-ever Ballon d'Or winner was from Barca – not Messi

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Youngest-ever Ballon d'Or winner was from Barca – not Messi

Some people think Leo Messi is the youngest-ever player to win the Ballon d'Or after doing it at 22 years of age in 2009.

The curious truth is that another former Barca player is the record holder – it's Ronaldo Nazario.

The Brazilian claimed the prize at 21 years and 96 days in 1997. Back then, he produced an incredible season in which he bagged 47 goals and provided 13 assists in 49 games for Barcelona.

No one has managed to beat Ronaldo's record since then. Even if Jude Bellingham wins it next year, he will be older than the Brazilian at the time of the win.

Ronaldo Nazario left Barcelona for Inter Milan in 1997 before joining Real Madrid 5 years later and becoming their own legend.

AuthorKosta KönigSourceGoal
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