Jorginho dreaming of Ballon d´Or as Mancini backs Italy and Chelsea star for award

Jorginho is dreaming of winning the Ballon d’Or as Azzurri head coach Roberto Mancini insisted no one is more “deserving” than the Chelsea and Italy star.

Having won Euro 2020 with Italy after helping Chelsea to Champions League glory last season, Jorginho is among the nominees for this year’s Ballon d’Or, alongside the likes of Paris Saint-Germain superstar and Copa America winner Lionel Messi and Bayern Munich’s Robert Lewandowski.

Jorginho already received the UEFA Men’s Player of the Year prize following his exploits for club and country.

“Ballon d’Or? That’s the dream of every child in the world,” Jorginho told reporters ahead of Sunday’s Nations League third-place play-off against Belgium.

“I learnt that dreaming little things and big things is exactly the same. So, I prefer to dream big things.”

#Azzurri 

 We spoke with Head Coach Roberto #Mancini as well as #Jorginho ahead of #ItalyBelgium tomorrow – Here’s what they had to say @robymancio #NationsLeague #ITABEL #VivoAzzurro pic.twitter.com/9KOX4gxDqN

— Italy (@Azzurri_En) October 9, 2021

“It would be incredible,” the 29-year-old midfielder continued. “I can’t find words to explain it. I could never imagine it when I start my career. But now I’m so close and that’s really incredible, I feel so good.”

Jorginho added: “Things are changing fast. I worked very hard with Chelsea and Italy, then this perfect season happened.

“Everyone helped me. I do not feel pressure, to be honest. I’m calm because everyone believes in me. I’m happy.”

Italy boss Mancini also endorsed Jorginho for the prized individual honour, telling a news conference: “They were nominated because they are good players and not because of me.

“If I have to choose one, I’d give it to Jorginho because he won Champions League, Euro Cup and FA Cup. He deserves it, I do not see anyone deserving it more than him.”