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Lionel Messi disagreed with Jurgen Klopp's decision to back Virgil van Dijk over Sadio Mane for the Ballon d'Or after it was revealed Liverpool star was 'unhappy' with his manager's stance

Sadio Mane had an ally in Lionel Messi after being 'left with a bitter taste' by Jurgen Klopp's decision to back Virgil van Dijk for last year's Ballon d'Or.

According to France Football, the Senegel star was unhappy that his manager publicly called for Van Dijk to win the prestigious award.

The Dutchman eventually finished second to Messi in the standings, while Mane came fourth behind Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo.

Lionel Messi revealed Sadio Mane was his pick for the Ballon d'Or after winning the award
Mane finished fourth and was unhappy not to be backed by Jurgen Klopp, according to reports

The former Southampton winger excelled in the 2018-19 season with 26 goals to propel Liverpool towards a sixth Champions League success and almost the Premier League title.