Danny Murphy backs Chelsea star Jorginho for Ballon d’Or 2021
According to talkSport (h/t Football.london), former Liverpool star Danny Murphy believes Chelsea star Jorginho could win this year’s Ballon d’Or.
The Italian international is coming off the back of an excellent year that saw him win the UEFA Champions League with Chelsea and the Euros with the Azzurri. It puts him in an excellent position to win the game’s biggest individual prize.
Murphy certainly thinks so and believes attaining international glory with Italy could swing the pendulum in Jorginho’s favour. Hopefully, that proved to be the case.
“I think it would be unusual for a midfielder but this time with Jorginho, he probably could win it after the Euros with Italy.”
Murphy realises that it is not easy for a midfielder to win the prestigious award. In fact, forwards usually are the favourites given their ability to find the back of the net.
“Do midfielders beat forwards for the Ballon d’Or because goals is what people remember and love and is one of the hardest things to do in football.”
Luka Modric remains the only midfielder to have won the award in the last 17 years. Jorginho has certainly outdone the Croatian’s achievements from 2018 and should stand a good chance. He could, however, face stern competition from Lionel Messi and Robert Lewandowski who continue to be prolific.
A number of Italian legends have also thrown their weight behind the 29-year-old to win the award. This includes 2006 World Cup winning manager Marcelo Lippi. He has in no uncertain terms claimed that the Chelsea star is deserving of the accolade.
“Jorginho should receive the Ballon d’Or this year, not the usual suspects.”
Jorginho is one of five Chelsea players who have made the 30 members shortlist for the award. Others in the fray include Cesar Azpilicueta, N’Golo Kante, Romelu Lukaku and Mason Mount.
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Jorginho admits that being nominated is nothing short of a dream come true. Something unfathomable just a year ago, his performances on the field have seen him prove his doubters otherwise. Hopefully, a Ballon d’Or will go on to shut them up for good.
