Chelsea Star Admits Ballon D'Or Snub Still Affects Him

Chelsea goalkeeper Edouardo Mendy has admitted that he is still affected by the fact that he was not nominated for the latest Ballon d’Or vote.

The 29-year-old lifted the UEFA Champions League, playing a crucial role in Thomas Tuchel’s side, but was snubbed on the shortlist of the Ballon d’Or.

Gianluigi Donnaruma was named on the list after winning Euro 2020 with Italy, however, as Mendy admits he is still affected by the decision.

“There have been some incredible moments and there have been some moments that have been more difficult,” he said when asked about his time at Chelsea so far.

“After the Ballon d’Or, I think that even if you try to rise above it, unconsciously you are still affected by it. But also it was something new for me. You learn from every challenge and I’ve learned how to deal with it. These are things that I've experienced which have made me a better person even if at the time it does affect us.”

Chelsea's Edouard Mendy with the trophy following the UEFA Champions League final in 2021. (Alamy)

The Senegal international went on to lift the Africa Cup of Nations with his national side in February, returning to also lift the Club World Cup with Chelsea.

Mendy continued to discuss the better times in his career, since signing for the Blues back in 2020.

He said: “I’ve also experienced some absolutely joyous moments with AFCON and the Champions League, the Super Cup, winning trophies when you win them, it becomes an addiction when you live your life in competition you want to be in the final to win. 

“I’ve been lucky enough to experience that at club level and with my national team who won for the first time in our history. So it’s a mix of a lot of emotions but enormously positive ones which brings huge amounts of pride to my family. And I’m really proud to see them so happy. 

Edouard Mendy celebrating the Africa Cup of Nations triumph with Senegal. (Alamy)

“For my neighbourhood Caucriauville and for my town Le Havre, these are a really big deal and in Le Havre we have a big Senegalese community. So all of them were dancing in the streets, changing my name. I’ve seen some videos, it’s crazy stuff! My reality is what every footballer dreams of.”

The goalkeeper saw his form appear to dip towards the end of the season but will be looking to pick himself up once again as Chelsea prepare to challenge with Manchester City and Liverpool, among others, at the top of the Premier League next season.