Italian star backed to battle Chelsea star and Lionel Messi for 2021 Ballon d’Or

Italy international Giorgio Chiellini has been backed to battle Chelsea star Jorginho and Lionel Messi for the 2021 Ballon d’Or award.

Chiellini led Italy to European Championship this summer, captaining Roberto Mancini’s men to silverware after Italy defeated England on penalties in the final at Wembley.

The Juventus legend who is now a free agent defy all odds with his performance and Shakhtar Donetsk manager Roberto De Zerbi, believes that he could challenge for France Football’s sought-after award.

Chelsea midfielder Jorginho has also been tipped to win the award as he was one of Italy’s best player during the Championship.

He also won the UEFA Champions League trophy with Chelsea and former Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has endorsed him for the award.

Messi is also a favourite for the award after leading Argentina to glory in 2021 Copa America held in Brazil.

With the award set to hold in the next few weeks, De Zerbi while speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, suggested that Jorginho deserves to win the Ballon d’Or.

However, he noted that Chiellini may follow the footsteps of Fabio Cannavaro by winning the award.