The speculation began after the 30-player shortlist for the Ballon d’Or, the most prestigious individual award in world football, was announced. Can the Argentine magician who has won the golden trophy a record eight times claim a ninth Ballon d’Or as he approaches the twilight of his career? Or is this simply an attempt to honor a living legend? These questions have sparked intense debate across the football world. Lionel Messi has made the shortlist published by French magazine France...