Ballon d’Or winner ‘leaked’ ahead of official ceremony

The winner has reportedly been leaked already

The winner of the 2022 Ballon d'Or has been leaked ahead of the official ceremony, which is set to take place on Monday (October 17) night. Reports have suggested that Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema is set to take home the prestigious award for the first time in his career after an exceptional 12 months. Benzema is considered the favourite to win the award after lifting the LaLiga and Champions League titles as well as scoring 44 goals in 46 games. The 34-year-old is likely to be rivalled by Barcelona's Robert Lewandowski for the award, however, the Poland striker has already named his striking counterpart as the favourite to win the prize while taking a dig at the decision to cancel the awards in 2020. "The Ballon d'Or is likely to be won by Benzema... if they don't cancel it" Spanish newspaper Marca have now claimed his impressive year is going to get even better by claiming the biggest individual prize in football. The results also claim that Madrid are set to scoop up several awards with Benzema's teammate, Thibaut Courtois, in line to win the Yashin Trophy. Courtois was also fundamental to Carlo Ancelotti's side's success and kept 22 clean sheets in all competitions - conceding 46 goals in total. Meanwhile, talented Barcelona youngster Pedro is set to win the Kopa Trophy for the second year running after establishing himself as one of football's brightest talents. The 19-year-old has featured 87 times since breaking into the first team at La Blaugrana and is highly rated by Barça boss Xavi. As well as announcing the winner of the men's edition, France Football will also confirm the winner of the Ballon d’Or Feminin on the same night. England Lionesses trio Lucy Bronze, Beth Mead and Millie Bright have all been nominated for the award, which was won by Alexia Putellas last year. Related links:

• Sadio Mane claims African players are unfairly overlooked for Ballon d’Or
• An ode to Karim: Why Benzema deserves a Ballon d’Or
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