Lionel Messi won the 2019 Golden Ball, beating Virgil Van Dyck. Liverpool defender believes that he showed himself great this year, but pays tribute to Messi.

" Unfortunately, there is a man like Messi. Six golden balls is awesome. I was close, but there was just a person who was a little better. But I'm proud of what I achieved last year with Liverpool and the national team. I think we can repeat success this year..

I never thought that I would enter the number of nominees for the Golden Ball. A dream can always come true, you just need to work and move forward. I'm very proud that I'm here. It will make me work even harder, "

In addition to Lionel Messi and Virgil Van Dyck, Cristiano Ronaldo, who did not arrive at the award ceremony, was among the three players.