Chelsea Star Mendy Motivated By Ballon d’Or Snub (See What He Said)

 Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy admits he was puzzled to see his name left off the Ballon d’Or shortlist, but the omission has only inspired him to achieve greater things in the future.

Mendy enjoyed a dream debut season at Stamford Bridge last term, leading the Blues to Champions League glory for the second time in the club’s history.

But the ex-Rennes man was a conspicuous absentee when the final candidates for the traditional end-of-year award were released.

“It’s something that motivates me and pushes me to work. Honestly, I am wondering,” Mendy explained to Canal Plus.

“If I had played for France and had taken part in the [European Championships], would we have this debate and this reflection?”

Despite his disappointment, Mendy respects the votes’ decision and now wants to do even better for club and country.

“Do I think it’s an injustice? No, I wouldn’t use that word,” he added.

“It’s something that motivates me to go forward, to work and to perform at club level and with my country.

“As I said after the game with the national team, it’s the journalists’ freedom of vote and expression, and they vote honourably and conscientiously.”