Lionel Messi believes Karim Benzema deserves to win the Ballon d'Or this year.

Benzema had the best season of his 13-year career at Real, scoring 44 goals with 15 assists in all competitions as they won a LaLiga-Champions League double.

"There are no doubts; it's very clear that Benzema had a spectacular year and ended up victorious in the Champions League," Messi said on Argentine television.

"He was fundamental in all the matches from the round of 16 onwards. I think there is no doubt this year."

The award will be presented on Oct. 17th ahead of the World Cup. The trophy will now be awarded on the basis of a regular season from August to July rather than a calendar year.