Sergio Ramos has backed Lionel Messi to win the Ballon d'Or after playing with him for the first time for Paris Saint-Germain.
Ramos, who signed for the club on a free transfer last summer, made his PSG debut in his side's 3-1 victory over St-Etienne on Sunday.
It was the first time the French giants fielded both Messi and Ramos in the starting line-up since their moves from Barcelona and Real Madrid, respectively.
Speaking after the match, the legendary Spaniard talked up the six-time Ballon d'Or winner and spoke highly of the difference he can make in a match.
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On Messi, the 35-year-old told ESPN via Marca: "He's in good shape, and I think he's the kind of player who really makes a difference.
"He's a unique player and it's a privilege to have him in the team.
"I think that bit by bit, each of us is going to bring our own quality to make Paris Saint-Germain even greater and achieve the things we want to achieve."
Asked if he wants Messi to win the prestigious individual award, he replied: "Yes, of course I'm going to defend the guys in my team.
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"I wish him all the luck in the world."
Messi has been tipped to win the Ballon d'Or for an unprecedented seventh time following a sensational year for club and country.
He scored 38 goals in all competitions for Barcelona last season and helped Argentina win the Copa America.
It has been claimed that Robert Lewandowski finished third in the Ballon d'Or rankings, behind Karim Benzema.
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The winner of the Ballon d'Or 2021 will be crowned tonight.
Featured Image Credit: PA/ESPNTopics: Sergio Ramos, Paris Saint-Germain, Football, Lionel Messi