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Thomas Muller fires Barcelona warning after Ballon d’Or disappointment

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The Bayern Munich star says the Bavarians are motivated to face Barca after Lewandowski’s defeat in the Ballon d’Or race.

Lionel Messi defeated Bayern striker Robert Lewandowski to win his seventh Ballon d’Or on Monday. Messi had a wonderful year, ending Argentina’s 28-year major trophy drought by leading them to Copa America glory.

However, the result was disappointing to many footballing figures, who thought Lewandowski deserved the Ballon d’Or for his incredible form. The Polish star won a treble with Bayern in 2020, but France Football cancelled last year’s awards amid COVID-19 concerns.

Lewandowski continued his form throughout the current year, breaking several Bayern and Bundesliga records in the process. But, in the end, it was Messi who extended his unbelievable record for most Ballon d’Or wins.

What has been said?

Bayern Munich midfielder Thomas Muller reacted to the Ballon d’Or rankings on Wednesday.

Muller said in a statement (via Mirror): “From the Bavarian, Polish and also German point of view, last night’s Ballon d’Or award ceremony was definitely a disappointment.

“For some even a bit more.

“Although I’ve been in the business a bit longer and therefore wasn’t really surprised about the outcome (it was similar with Franck Ribéry in 2013), the whole thing has formed or once again solidified a thought in me: We have great players in the Bundesliga and don’t have to hide.

“For worldwide recognition, however, we need more international successes.”

What does it mean for Barca?

Bayern Munich will face Barcelona in their last group stage game of the Champions League. Barca need to defeat Bayern at Allianz Arena to go to the knock out stage, while the Bavarians are already qualified.

However, the recent disappointment for Lewandowski has motivated Muller to take the game more seriously.

He added: “That’s a huge motivation for me, too, to put everything on the line to bring the Champions League back to Munich and show the soccer world what’s what.

“And above all, what German soccer has to offer.

“The next opportunity to do so will be next Wednesday at the Champions League match against FC Barcelona. Let’s go for it!

“PS: With Lionel Messi, the vote was won by probably the best individualist soccer has ever produced.

“So congratulations to Lionel for winning the Ballon d’Or, even if I think Robert Lewandowski deserved it more this time.

“What do you think?”

Bayern Munich will face Borussia Dortmund in a crucial Bundesliga game on Saturday, before meeting Barcelona four days later.

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