Chelsea midfielder Jorginho could reportedly end the Blues’ 65-year wait for a Ballon d’Or winner if Italy win Euro 2020 this weekend.
The Blues midfielder has been in exemplary form for his nation throughout the tournament, topping his displays with the winning penalty in the semi-final success against Spain at Wembley.
That has seen plenty of calls for Jorginho to be a contender for the Ballon d’Or, especially after also playing a pivotal role in Chelsea’s Champions League victory.
Former Blues boss Maurizio Sarri has talked up his chances of claiming the award.
He said: “If the European Championship were to win [with Italy], it is clear that he would become one [a contender].
“He is a refined player, probably not understandable by everyone. You have to set your eyes on him and only watch him in the game. He is so good and intelligent that he makes everything seem easy, rarely anything spectacular remains in your eyes.
“This is its greatness.”
Those sentiments agree with that of Italy teammate Lorenzo Insigne, who has also recommended Jorginho for the Ballon d’Or.
He said: "He has spent some fantastic years at Chelsea and I am proud to have him in our team.
"I’m not the one deciding if he deserves the Ballon d’Or, but I hope he’ll be shortlisted, he deserves so, he is a great player.”
Now, Gazzetta dello Sport have suggested that the Chelsea midfielder could propel himself to prime position should Italy overcome England in the Euro 2020 final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday evening.
Should that happen and Jorginho claim the prestigious award, he would become the first-ever Blue to be named as a Ballon d’Or winner.
In 65 years of the award in its various guises, a Chelsea player has never claimed it - the only English clubs having had a representative being Liverpool, Manchester United and Blackpool.
Of course, the Blues have gone close before with Frank Lampard having come second in the voting for the 2005 edition. Jorginho then well be hoping he can become the man to break that long wait.
