Cesc Fabregas backs Manchester City superstar to win Ballon d'Or ahead of Real Madrid sensation

Former Arsenal and Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas has claimed that Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne should win the Ballon d'Or ahead of Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr.

Fabregas, who is now a pundit for DAZN, made the claim on Twitter after De Bruyne inspired City to a 4-0 win over Chelsea in the FA Cup third round on Sunday.

De Bruyne scored one goal and set up another two as City cruised to victory at the Etihad Stadium.

The Belgian has been in excellent form for City this season, scoring 11 goals and providing 15 assists in all competitions.

Vinicius Jr, meanwhile, has also been in impressive form for Real Madrid, scoring 16 goals and providing 10 assists in all competitions.

The Brazilian was named the UEFA Men's Player of the Year for 2022 after helping Real Madrid win the Champions League and La Liga.

However, Fabregas believes that De Bruyne is the more deserving winner of the Ballon d'Or.

"For me, Kevin De Bruyne is the best player in the world," Fabregas tweeted.

"He has been the best player in the Premier League for the last few years and he is the best player in the Champions League this season."

"He is the complete midfielder and he can do everything on the pitch."

"I think he should win the Ballon d'Or ahead of Vinicius Jr."

The Ballon d'Or is awarded to the best player in the world as voted by a panel of journalists.

The award is handed out by France Football magazine and is considered to be the most prestigious individual award in football.

The winner of the 2023 Ballon d'Or will be announced in October.