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Tag: Ballon D’Or

  • Bukayo Saka says there’s ‘no rush’ to renew his contract with Arsenal; hopes to win the Ballon d’Or one day

    Bukayo Saka says there’s ‘no rush’ to renew his contract with Arsenal; hopes to win the Ballon d’Or one day

    Bukayo Saka has suggested that he plans to stay at Arsenal for a long time, saying he wants “to win while wearing this badge.” He also shared his dream of one day winning the Ballon d’Or.

    The England international still has two years left on his current Arsenal contract, which is reportedly worth up to £300,000 a week. The club is expected to begin talks with him soon about a new deal.

    Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s Champions League quarterfinal first-leg clash with Real Madrid, Saka said,: “For me, I want to win and I want to win wearing this badge.

    “I think it is pretty clear — the fans know how much I love them and you saw when I came on on Tuesday [against Everton], I think they love me back so it is a good relationship. I am really happy to be here and I’m just focused on winning.
    “I don’t think anyone is really in a rush. I have got two years left on my contract so it is pretty relaxed. Everyone knows my thoughts and I’ve let you guys know as well so I don’t think there’s any rush really.”

    Saka, whose sole trophy win remains the 2020 FA Cup, returned from an almost four-month absence following hamstring surgery last week and is set to start against Madrid for the first time, facing off against Vinícius Júnior, Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham among others in the conversation for the Ballon d’Or.

    “If you ask my physios, there was a lot of conversation about this game,” Saka said. “I was waiting to be back and not just back, back in good shape. I’m feeling good. That’s what I spent a lot of months working massively towards and we’re here now so I’m excited.”

    Saka finished 21st in the voting for last year’s Ballon d’Or — won by Manchester City midfielder Rodri ahead of Vinícius Júnior — and asked winning the prize was a target of his, the 23-year-old replied: “It’s a dream. I think it’s a dream for a lot of players. I’m just working hard to do my best for my team, and any individual awards that come of it, I’ll accept it.”

    Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has urged his players to create their own legacy as they prepare for only their second Champions League quarterfinal in the past 15 years.

    Last season, the Gunners were knocked out at this stage by Bayern Munich. Speaking ahead of the match, Arteta said,“Building those experiences is something necessary.

  • Rodri-Vini Jr: Pep Guardiola dismisses Ballon d’Or controversy as unimportant

    Rodri-Vini Jr: Pep Guardiola dismisses Ballon d’Or controversy as unimportant

    Pep Guardiola has said Manchester City have drawn a line under the Ballon d’Or controversy with Real Madrid ahead of their Champions League showdown.

    The Spanish giants boycotted the ceremony in Paris in October in protest at City midfielder Rodri winning the award ahead of Vinícius Júnior.

    The two teams face each other in the first leg of their Champions League play-off at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday. And ahead of the game, Guardiola insisted there is no ill feeling between the clubs.

    “Happy for Rodri,” Guardiola said, when asked for his opinion on the fall-out. “Vinícius made an extraordinary year as well. He deserved it. Like in the past when [Lionel] Messi and Cristiano [Ronaldo] were fighting for that. The subject is over.”

    Rúben Dias, who travelled to Paris with Rodri for the ceremony, also attempted to play down the dispute. “Being very honest I didn’t spend one second thinking if it was disrespectful or not,” he said.

    “I was there, I celebrated with him, I was very happy for him. I didn’t spend my time thinking about it.”

    For the fifth time in six seasons, Manchester City and Real Madrid have been drawn together in the Champions League. Last season, Carlo Ancelotti’s team emerged victorious on penalties, whereas City comfortably triumphed in 2023 with a 4-0 win at the Etihad Stadium, ultimately securing a treble.

    This time around, Pep Guardiola faces the additional challenge of contending with Kylian Mbappé, alongside threats from Vinícius, Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham. The French international has already netted 23 goals in his debut season with Madrid, including one in Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Atlético Madrid.

    “I think it’s impossible for 90 minutes or 180 minutes to control these four players,” Guardiola said. “They are exceptional. So how they combine, the runners, the ability one against one, how they keep the ball. So all four, they are exceptional. Everybody knows it. So we have to reduce their involvement as much as possible. Knowing that is going to happen, accept it.”

    Dias, meanwhile, said Madrid should be wary of City’s stars, including Erling Haaland.

    “I think since I have been there the most difficult season but I am a firm believer, even in the most difficult situations, you can achieve something beautiful,” the City defender said.

    “We know how difficult it will be. But we have loads of guns in the dressing room and we just have to use them the right way.”

  • Ballon d’Or: Michael Oti Adjei tells why he voted Man City’s Rodri over Madrid’s Vini Jr.

    Ballon d’Or: Michael Oti Adjei tells why he voted Man City’s Rodri over Madrid’s Vini Jr.

    Veteran sports journalist Michael Oti Adjei has shared the key factors he considered before selecting Manchester City midfielder Rodri as his top choice for the 2024 Ballon d’Or.

    As Ghana’s representative on the 2024 Ballon d’Or voting panel, Oti Adjei explained that he prioritized players who consistently made a significant impact, delivered in crucial matches, and produced standout moments throughout the year.

    “I thought that if you had an individual who had the most impact on a team over the year, I was convinced it was Rodri. My conviction was that, when there were big games, when it mattered most, he wasn’t just a good central midfielder.

    “In a game, if you need someone who would control the game, build uptempo, and attack and score in crunch moments, I always thought you could rely on Rodri,” he told Pure FM.

    He affirms the narrative that Rodri won the award for being the most consistent player throughout the season.

    “I think he was rewarded for his consistency. He was the best player in 2024 for his consistency. The previous year, I voted for Erling Haaland because I thought that although Rodri’s consistency was incredible, Haaland’s goals and numbers were impossible to ignore.”

    Oti Adjei emphasised that Rodri was the most decisive player among the final shortlist, adding that Vinicius’ subpar run for Brazil cost him the award.

    “But for 2024, on the balance of the players who deserved the Ballon d’Or, I thought Rodri was the most decisive for his team. If Vinicius had done as well as Rodri did at the national team level, I think he would have won it.”

    Michael Oti Adjei cast his top five Ballon d’Or votes for Rodri, Vinicius Jr, Erling Haaland, Jude Bellingham, and Lamine Yamal.

    In the final tally, Rodri clinched the award with 1,170 points, narrowly surpassing Vinicius Jr, who finished close behind with 1,129 points in a tight competition.

  • This is what really happened: The alleged ‘confusion’ between Drogba’s mistress and wife at Ballon d’Or event

    This is what really happened: The alleged ‘confusion’ between Drogba’s mistress and wife at Ballon d’Or event

    Chelsea legend Didier Drogba became the subject of viral social media buzz following a moment at the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony on October 28 in Paris, France,, where he appeared to be at the center of an unintended interaction involving two women.

    In the widely shared video, Drogba arrived at the event accompanied by his rumored girlfriend, Gabrielle Lemaire.

    However, as he was being ushered onto the red carpet by journalist and co-host Sandy Heribert, there was an accidental, light brush between Heribert’s sleeve and Lemaire’s face.

    This brief incident has sparked a range of online speculations. Some social media users misinterpreted the video, mistakenly identifying Heribert as Drogba’s wife and suggesting that she showed up to disrupt his evening with a “mistress.”

    In reality, Heribert was simply doing her job as an event co-host.

    Drogba, who has remained single since his 2021 divorce from Lalla, his wife of 20 years, has not remarried.

    “(I) am not used to discussing my private life, but due to speculation in the media today, I will confirm that unfortunately, after 20 years together, Lalla and I have made the difficult decision to go our separate ways.” He announced the separation via an Instagram post.

    “We remain very close, and our main goal has been our children and to protect them and the privacy of the family,” he added.

    They had three children in their over two decades of marriage.

  • Benzema faces criticism on social media for remarks about Rodri’s Ballon d’Or win

    Benzema faces criticism on social media for remarks about Rodri’s Ballon d’Or win

    Legendary French footballer Karim Benzema recently received criticism from some social media users after voicing his opinion on the 2024 Ballon d’Or outcome, suggesting that Manchester City midfielder Rodri was undeserving of the win over Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr.

    Reflecting on the award, Benzema acknowledged Rodri’s skill in the midfield but argued that he lacks the extraordinary impact that Vinicius brings, which he believes captivates fans more.

    The 2022 Ballon d’Or recipient expressed these sentiments in a tweet shared on ESPN FC’s X account, maintaining that Vinicius, his former Real Madrid teammate, would have been a more fitting choice for the award.

    “I have nothing against Rodri, who is a good player. But I’m on my couch, I watch television, and Rodri does not do things that make me say: ‘Pfff,’ and Vinicius has done that more than once,” Benzema said.

    Benzema’s comments drew significant backlash on social media, with many football fans accusing him of undervaluing Rodri’s contributions to his club and national team.

    Critics expressed disappointment in the Al-Ittihad player for making such remarks, particularly given his status as a top athlete who should appreciate the game’s nuances.

    Rodri’s achievements include several prestigious titles, such as the English Premier League, FIFA Club World Cup, and UEFA EURO 2024, all of which contributed to his recognition as the winner of the Ballon d’Or.

    On the other hand, Vinicius Jr. also enjoyed a successful season, securing the UEFA Champions League, Super Cup, and Spanish La Liga titles with Real Madrid.

    The contrast in their accolades highlights the competitive nature of football and the differing perspectives on player contributions.

  • Edem’s X post suggests VGMA robbed him of 2015 VGMA Artiste of the Year award

    Edem’s X post suggests VGMA robbed him of 2015 VGMA Artiste of the Year award

    Ghanaian rapper Edem Goget’em has stated in a recent post on X that he should have won the Artiste of the Year slot in the 2015 Ghana Music Awards.

    Likening his situation to this year’s Ballon d’Or, which Vinicius Jr. did not win, contrary to the expectations of a lot of people, he alluded in the post that even though he merited the Artiste of the Year award, it went to a different artiste.

    “Why #BallondOr come dey behave like the way VGMA take do me 2015 Artist of the Year? This is a heinous crime!! A daylight robbery!! … Vinicius Jr. is the REAL WINNER’? ” he wrote.

    In 2015, the nominees for the Artiste of the Year category in the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards were Daddy Lumba, Stonebwoy, Guru, Edem, MzVee, Sarkodie, and Samini.

    Stonebwoy, who won the Artiste of the Year slot, said in his speech, “I believe that the other artists are happy I won. Behold how tall we have grown. This is well deserved.”

    Stonebwoy, Sarkodie, and Edem, who were the biggest winners on the night, took home three (3) awards each.

    Edem’s ‘Koene’ had several nominations, as the remix of his song ‘The One’ also earned him a nomination in the Best Rapper Category.

  • Drogba’s “last minute” post ignites Ballon d’Or award controversy

    Drogba’s “last minute” post ignites Ballon d’Or award controversy

    Didier Drogba’s recent social media post mentioning “last minute” adjustments at the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony has stirred controversy around the award results.

    The former Ivory Coast international and ex-Chelsea striker hosted the prestigious event at Paris’s Theatre of Chatelet, where Manchester City midfielder Rodri was named the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, surpassing Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham.

    Drogba shared on his official X page, expressing pride in his team’s efforts despite unforeseen changes that disrupted part of the event script: “So proud of my Team and the work we’ve put on, especially with all the last minutes changes who [which] lead to the loss of half the written script we worked on the past 10 days,” part of his post read.

    The post quickly sparked speculation, with many linking Drogba’s words to the perceived controversy surrounding Rodri’s win. One user commented, “Drogba just confirmed that Vinicius was robbed,” while another questioned, “What do you mean by last minute changes DD [Didier Drogba]?”

    Some fans even humorously suggested Drogba should have changed the results himself, with one user saying, “Brother, you can cross out Rodri’s name and put Vini’s name in there.”

    Vinicius Junior, along with the Real Madrid entourage, reportedly boycotted the event upon learning the Brazilian would not receive the top honor.

  • Real Madrid reportedly accuses UEFA of influencing Vinicius Junior’s 2024 Ballon d’Or snub

    Real Madrid reportedly accuses UEFA of influencing Vinicius Junior’s 2024 Ballon d’Or snub

    Drama unfolded at the 2024 Ballon d’Or gala as Rodri was awarded the coveted trophy over Vinicius Junior, sparking surprise among fans.

    Real Madrid reportedly believed Vinicius was a strong favourite, supported by a significant fan base and prominent figures within football.

    According to Madrid Universal, the club suspects UEFA’s influence played a role in the decision, potentially due to ongoing tensions with Real Madrid stemming from their support of the European Super League.

    For the first time since 1956, UEFA collaborated with France Football on the Ballon d’Or, a fact that has heightened Real Madrid’s suspicions about UEFA’s role in swaying the results in Rodri’s favour.

    Additionally, Real Madrid contends that the criteria used to select Rodri could have instead recognised Dani Carvajal, further emphasising the club’s dissatisfaction.

    As a result of these perceived injustices, Real Madrid opted to boycott the ceremony, expressing their belief that their club was undervalued in the proceedings.

    In a related report by TUKO.co.ke, despite the prestige of the Ballon d’Or award, it was revealed that there is no financial prize associated with winning this trophy.

  • Rodrygo expresses disappointment over Ballon d’Or snub

    Rodrygo expresses disappointment over Ballon d’Or snub

    Rodrygo expressed his frustration about being left off the men’s Ballon d’Or shortlist, despite his key contributions to Real Madrid’s La Liga and Champions League triumphs last season.

    Several of his teammates, including Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, Toni Kroos, Antonio Rüdiger, Dani Carvajal, and new signing Kylian Mbappé, were named on the prestigious 30-man list, but Rodrygo was notably absent.

    “I was upset; I think I deserved it,” Rodrygo told ESPN in an exclusive interview on Sunday. “I don’t want to belittle the players who are there, but I think I had a place in the 30. It was a surprise.

    But there’s not much I can do; I’m not the one who decides these things.”

    The Ballon d’Or winner is set to be revealed during a ceremony in Paris on October 28. Last season, Rodrygo netted 10 goals in 34 LaLiga appearances and added five goals in the Champions League for Real Madrid.

    Despite competition from the arrival of Kylian Mbappé, Rodrygo has remained in Carlo Ancelotti’s starting lineup as part of a three-man attack.

    Recently, Rodrygo took to social media, sharing photos of himself holding trophies with Madrid, accompanied by a laughing emoji. He later admitted the post was meant to poke fun at his omission from the Ballon d’Or shortlist.

    “I made a somewhat mocking post,” Rodrygo said. “Now there’s not much to say. Everyone knows my indignation. Everyone [has supported me], both in the national team and at Real Madrid. People sent messages.”

    Rodrygo admitted that his versatility has inhibited his progress, especially with Brazil, who play Paraguay in a World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.

    The forward scored the only goal of the game in a 1-0 victory over Ecuador this weekend.

    “Often, I’m just filling spaces,” Rodrygo said. “Is someone missing there? Put Rodrygo in. Is someone missing on the right? Rodrygo. Is someone missing as No. 9? Rodrygo. That’s it. It may get in my way a little, but I’m a team player.”

    Rodrygo was asked about Madrid and Brazil teenager Endrick, who has been given the ironic nickname “Bobby” by teammates after citing England legend Bobby Charlton as one of his idols.

    “Now he has become Bobby!” Rodrygo told ESPN. “He is no longer Endrick. He’s become Bobby, that’s it. There’s nothing to be done, if he gets angry, it’s worse!”

  • Nico Williams one of 10 La Liga players shortlisted for the Ballon d’Or

    Nico Williams one of 10 La Liga players shortlisted for the Ballon d’Or

    Spain forward Nico Williams, of Ghanaian descent, has been named among the 10 players shortlisted for the 2024 Ballon d’Or from La Liga.

    Williams earned this nomination following his stellar performances for Spain during the 2024 European Championship, where he played a crucial role in helping La Roja secure the title.

    His remarkable form also extended to his club season with Athletic Club, where he was instrumental in their triumph in the Copa del Rey.

    Other La Liga players nominated for the prestigious award include Lamine Yama, Jude Bellingham, Dani Olmo, Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr., and retired star Toni Kroos.

  • Messi, Ronaldo miss out on Ballon d’Or nominations for the first time in over two decades

    Messi, Ronaldo miss out on Ballon d’Or nominations for the first time in over two decades

    For the first time since 2003, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo were excluded from the list of nominees for the Ballon d’Or, marking a significant shift in the football landscape.

    Both players have dominated the prestigious award for nearly two decades, with Messi holding a record eight wins and Ronaldo five.

    However, neither appeared among the 30 contenders announced on Wednesday for this year’s prize, which will be awarded on October 28.

    This year’s nominees include notable talents such as Vinicius Junior, Rodri, Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, and Harry Kane.

    Vinicius and Bellingham played pivotal roles in Real Madrid’s La Liga victory and their 16th Champions League title last season, while Haaland was the Premier League’s top scorer, and Kane achieved the same feat in the Bundesliga for Bayern Munich.

    Mbappé also completed a long-anticipated transfer to Real Madrid this summer after six seasons at PSG.

    Messi, currently recovering from an injury at Inter Miami, took home the Ballon d’Or last year. His first win came in 2009, kicking off a four-year streak of dominance, and his name first appeared on the nominee list in 2006.

    Ronaldo made his debut as a Ballon d’Or nominee in 2004. Together, they captured the award 13 times between 2008 and 2021, turning it into a two-man contest for most of their careers.

    On the women’s side, five players from the U.S. national team—Lindsey Horan, Alyssa Naeher, Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, and Mallory Swanson—were nominated, following their triumph in the 2024 Olympic Games.

    Spain, despite finishing fourth at the Olympics, has five players nominated: Aitana Bonmatí, Mariona Caldentey, Patri Guijarro, Salma Paralluelo, and Alexia Putellas.

    Spanish players have won the Ballon d’Or Féminin for the past three years, with Bonmatí claiming it in 2023 and Putellas winning twice before that.

    England, the runner-up in the 2023 World Cup final, also boasts three nominees: Lauren Hemp, Lauren James, and Lucy Bronze.

  • Vinicius Jr told he deserves Ballon d’Or already

    Vinicius Jr told he deserves Ballon d’Or already

    Brazilian legends Ronaldo Nazário and Rivaldo have expressed their belief that Vinícius Júnior has already achieved enough to be awarded this year’s Ballon d’Or after leading Real Madrid to LaLiga and Champions League titles this season.

    Vinícius scored in Madrid’s 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final last weekend, securing the club’s 15th European Cup title and his second during his six-year tenure at the club.

    Rivaldo stated that Vinícius needed to elevate his performance and increase his goal tally this season to win his first Ballon d’Or, the prestigious annual award presented by French magazine France Football to the world’s best player.

    With Vinícius scoring 24 goals in 34 games across all competitions this season, Rivaldo believes he has accomplished this feat.

    “He’s a very dedicated boy,” Rivaldo told ESPN Brasil. “He arrived at Real Madrid and went to Real Madrid B to learn. He played a few games and we could see that he still needed a bit of time to learn how to score.

    And he learnt! He trained hard and dedicated himself. Today, you can see that he has a much easier time scoring.”

    Vinícius could add to his trophy haul this season when he competes with Brazil at this summer’s Copa América, to be held in the United States. Although Rivaldo said it can only add to his track record this season.

    “So Viní is a player to be congratulated. He deserves the Ballon d’Or. Of course, there’s nothing better for him than to secure the award once and for all than by winning the Copa America now, right?

    Today he already deserves the award, but if he wins the Copa America, even better,” Rivaldo said.
    Ronaldo agreed.

    “I think Viní already deserves it [the Ballon d’Or]. He’s had a spectacular Champions League, a spectacular La Liga, and he’s been evolving more and more,” Ronaldo said, standing alongside Rivaldo.

    “I remember that I did his presentation the day he arrived at Real Madrid and I got on well with him. I talk to Viní a lot about football and certain details and, looking at everything that’s happened, it’s a fantastic development that he’s making.

    “I think his time has come. He’s been extremely decisive this year for Real Madrid. For me, today he’s the best player in the world by far.”

  • Video: See Ronaldo teach Al-Nassr team-mates new ‘trick’

    Video: See Ronaldo teach Al-Nassr team-mates new ‘trick’

    Cristiano Ronaldo continues to be a source of inspiration at Al-Nassr, with the Portuguese superstar sharing his expertise and teaching his teammates new skills.

    The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who began his career as a dazzling winger at Sporting and Manchester United, evolved into one of the most prolific goalscorers in football history during his tenures at United, Real Madrid, and Juventus.

    At 39, he remains a formidable force in Saudi Arabia, continually breaking records.

    Despite his age, Ronaldo retains his exceptional technical ability, often demonstrating his ball-juggling prowess to his Al-Nassr colleagues.

    He has been particularly focused on teaching them the intricate double ‘around the world’ flick.

    Ronaldo hopes these lessons will be beneficial as Al-Nassr prepares for their final competitive match of the 2023-24 season on Friday.

    With 50 goals this season, he aims to lead his team to King Cup of Champions victory before joining Portugal for Euro 2024.

  • Its another Champions League title I want, focus not on Ballon d’Or, – Vinícius Jr.

    Its another Champions League title I want, focus not on Ballon d’Or, – Vinícius Jr.

    Vinícius Júnior has brushed aside rumours suggesting he could clinch the Ballon d’Or, emphasising his priority to assist Real Madrid in securing their 15th Champions League title.


    Named the player of the match in Madrid’s 2-1 Champions League semifinal second-leg triumph over Bayern Munich on Wednesday, the Brazil international said: “Everyone talks about the Ballon d’Or but I’m very calm. I want to win another Champions League with this team.


    “I can do great things this season and then I have to go with Brazil [for the Copa América]. I always think about the teams first and then me.

    “We were able to place the best team in the world in another final. We have 25 stars in the team, all of us have worked hard to achieve our aim which is to go to London [for the Champions League final] and win La Liga. We have won La Liga; we are going to London.”

    On June 1, Madrid is set to face Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final at London’s Wembley Stadium. Vinícius, 23, is considered one of the top candidates to inherit Lionel Messi’s Ballon d’Or title.

    He showcased his talent by netting a hat trick in Madrid’s victory over Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final last January, and his contributions with 13 goals played a pivotal role in Los Blancos’ LaLiga triumph.

    In the Champions League, his performance has been remarkable, scoring five goals and providing five assists in nine appearances.

    “I came here [to Madrid] when I was young, 18,” he said. “I was criticised a lot and that made me work a lot more in order to be ready when the time came… I train every day to improve. I’m now here, in another final.

    “I’ve never worked in a group that is as united as ours is this season. This group works a lot.”
    Vinícius also paid tribute to Spanish forward Joselu, whose two late goals put Madrid in the final.


    “[Against Bayern on Wednesday] Joselu came on in the 81st minute and scored two goals,” he said. “This is a reward for Joselu. He has always worked to do the best for the team and never complained when he didn’t play. This proves what our group is.”

  • Messi is the best of all time – Haaland

    Messi is the best of all time – Haaland

    Before the Champions League Round of 16 clash between FC Copenhagen and Manchester City, forward Erling Haaland praised Lionel Messi as the greatest player in football history.

    The Norwegian player acknowledged Messi’s unparalleled impact on the sport, evident in his record-breaking eight Ballon d’Or wins.

    Haaland also pointed out Messi’s pivotal role in Argentina’s triumph in the World Cup, highlighting it as a significant achievement that distinguishes him from other players.

    “He won those trophies and also won the World Cup. He is the best of all time, in my opinion,” Haaland said.

    Asked about his dip in performance lately, the Manchester City striker said, “Last year I scored 36 goals and was the top scorer. This season I am still the top scorer, with 18, so you can think it’s been a good season or not for me.

    “I think we are doing quite well as a team, and that’s my goal. I have missed, I have missed many chances, and I will surely miss in the future, and people will criticise me. Do I have to think about it? No.”

    In 2023, Lionel Messi secured his eighth Ballon d’Or, triumphing over competitors Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland, who finished second and third, respectively.

  • PSG accused of attempting to influence Lionel Messi and Ballon d’Or result

    PSG accused of attempting to influence Lionel Messi and Ballon d’Or result

    Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is facing allegations of attempting to sway the outcome of the Ballon d’Or in favour of Lionel Messi.

    Le Monde reports that PSG officials tried to influence Pascal Ferre, the former editor-in-chief of France Football and Ballon d’Or organiser, by offering various favours.

    The club is accused of seeking Ferre’s support with the aim of securing the Ballon d’Or for Messi during his tenure in Paris. The investigation is said to be centred around Jean-Martial Ribes, the former director of communications at PSG, according to Le Monde.

    A report by the General Inspectorate of the National Police from November 2023 says: “Ribes requested to obtain tickets for PSG football matches by journalists, politicians, elected officials, members of ministerial cabinets or the presidency, artists.”

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1r2TnbVINPs

    Despite any attempts by PSG to influence Ballon d’Or officials, Lionel Messi did not secure the coveted trophy during his time at the club.

    Messi, now with Inter Miami in MLS, clinched the Ballon d’Or for his exceptional 2022-23 season, notably leading Argentina to victory in the World Cup in Qatar.

    The investigation into PSG’s alleged actions is ongoing. Meanwhile, PSG is set to resume action in the French Cup round of 64 on Sunday.

  • ‘Who is this guy?!’ – Ronaldo thrashes academy graduate thinking he could compete against him

    ‘Who is this guy?!’ – Ronaldo thrashes academy graduate thinking he could compete against him

    Cristiano Ronaldo delivered a sharp retort to claims made by former Sporting CP Academy prospect Fabio Paim.

    Paim, in a recent podcast hosted by PT Clipes, asserted that he deserves at least one of Ronaldo’s five Ballon d’Or awards.

    He further claimed that possessing even half of Ronaldo’s intelligence would place him on par with the Portuguese star and Lionel Messi in terms of career accomplishments.

    The 38-year-old Al-Nassr player did not take kindly to Paim’s comments, responding with a cutting remark on the video posted on PT Clips’ Instagram page.

    Ronaldo wrote: “Wtf. Who is this guy?”

    Speaking on the podcast, Paim said, “Cristiano Ronaldo should offer me one of his Ballon d’Ors. I went to Sporting when I was seven years old; I grew up there. There were years of glory in which I won everything I could.

    “I didn’t reach where I could have reached, but I marked a generation. If people don’t forget, it’s because I marked them.

    “I said when I was happy that I thought Cristiano Ronaldo could offer me a Ballon d’Or. But it was with humility. If I had half of Cristiano’s head, it wouldn’t be him and Messi. It would be me, him and Messi, and maybe he wouldn’t have won the Ballon d’Or that he has. Maybe one of them was mine.”

  • I pay no attention to such things – Osimhen on Nigeria, Ghana vote snub in 2023 Ballon d’Or polls

    I pay no attention to such things – Osimhen on Nigeria, Ghana vote snub in 2023 Ballon d’Or polls

    Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has emphasised that he doesn’t dwell on those who fail to appreciate his outstanding 2022–2023 performance.

    Instead, he gives credit to fellow players.

    The Napoli forward expressed apparent disappointment when none of the African representatives on the 2023 Ballon d’Or voting panel selected him as their first choice.

    During a conversation with former Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi, the top scorer in Serie A among Africans asserted that, despite not being the favoured choice for African voters, he secured an 8th position in the rankings.

    “What you said I just saw it today, this morning. A friend of mine just showed it to me. I feel like, for me, everyone is entitled to their opinion and this is what I always believed. No one can deny the effort that I put in last season. No one can downplay what I did.

    “I feel like at the end of the day, I came 8th. Even if I came 8th or 10th or 11th, I think I’ve done so much for myself to get the recognition and the one I’ll continue to have. So for me, It doesn’t really change anything.”

    He added that he gives no attention to people who do not acknowledge his efforts; hence, he does not dwell on such issues.

    “They can vote for who they like because for me it is all love. I don’t take these things into consideration. I focus on the people that love me so much…wholeheartedly.

    “The ones that support me, the ones that defend me and everything. My family, my friends—these are the things that really matter to me. Not the ones that try to downplay what I’ve worked for, the season that I had, and then put the credit on another man.”


    A panel of 100 journalists from diverse countries was selected to cast their votes for the 30 players shortlisted for the 2023 Ballon d’Or.

    Journalists are chosen based on FIFA’s rankings, with one representative from each of the top 100 ranked nations granted a vote.

    In the voting process, each journalist selects their top five players, with the first receiving six points, the second earning four, the third gaining three, the fourth securing two, and the fifth obtaining one point.

    The three players accumulating the highest points form the top three shortlist, with the player garnering the highest points ultimately winning the award.

    Representing Ghana, Michael Oti Adjei from TV3 network cast his vote, while Samm Audu from scorenigeria voted on behalf of Nigeria.

    Oti Adjei’s top five choices were Erling Haaland, Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Kevin De Bruyne, and Victor Osimhen. On the other hand, Audu voted for Messi, Haaland, Mbappe, Osimhen, and Jude Bellingham.

  • Ballon d’Or win: Inter Miami announces a ‘Messi celebration’ with friendlies against NYCFC

    Ballon d’Or win: Inter Miami announces a ‘Messi celebration’ with friendlies against NYCFC


    In honour of Lionel Messi’s eighth Ballon d’Or win, Inter Miami has announced that he will be part of their lineup this offseason.

    Messi, the extraordinary talent from Argentina, secured his eighth Golden Ball on Monday, thanks to his remarkable performances for Paris Saint-Germain and the national team.

    Inter Miami, his current club, revealed their plans on Friday to mark this historic achievement by scheduling a friendly match. On November 10, Miami will go head-to-head with New York City FC, a fellow team in the Eastern Conference, in a “night full of festivities.”


    The decision to pay tribute to Messi is a relief for Miami fans, who were uncertain about seeing the 36-year-old in action earlier this week.

    The team, under the leadership of David Beckham, had to cancel their China tour on Wednesday due to apparent “commercial and bureaucratic issues.” Now, the gap in their schedule will be filled by the upcoming ‘Noche d’Or’ event.

    Since his arrival in Miami in July, Messi has made a remarkable impact with 11 goals and eight assists in 14 appearances across all competitions.

    Despite playing in only half of the campaign, he finished second in the MLS Newcomer of the Year award.

  • Maybe some other time, Haaland! Messi beats Haaland, grabs 8th Ballon d’Or award

    Maybe some other time, Haaland! Messi beats Haaland, grabs 8th Ballon d’Or award


    Lionel Messi has     made history by claiming his eighth Ballon d’Or award in the 2023 competition, surpassing all expectations and surpassing Manchester City’s Erling Haaland.

    The footballing legend, Messi, was widely anticipated to secure the prestigious Golden Ball at the star-studded ceremony in Paris, and indeed, he was presented with the trophy by none other than David Beckham on Monday night.

    At the age of 36, Messi outshone the competition, with Erling Haaland of Manchester City finishing as the runner-up and Kylian Mbappe of Paris Saint-Germain in third place.

    Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne and Rodri took the fourth and fifth spots, respectively.

    Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior secured the sixth position, followed by City’s Julian Alvarez in seventh, Victor Osimhen in eighth, Bernardo Silva of Manchester City in ninth, and Real Madrid’s Luka Modric rounding off the top 10.

    This marks the eighth time that Messi has been honoured as the world’s best men’s player, with his standout performances during the 2022 World Cup being a significant factor in securing this prestigious individual accolade.

    The Argentine captain scored crucial goals in every knockout-stage game, ultimately leading La Albiceleste to their long-awaited global triumph. In the realm of club football, Messi played a pivotal role in Paris Saint-Germain’s Ligue 1 victory, contributing 16 goals and 16 assists.

    Following Messi, Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo holds the record with five Ballon d’Or victories, though notably, he was not among the shortlisted candidates for the first time since 2003.

    The 2023 Ballon d’Or debate was chiefly dominated by the contest between Messi and Haaland. Haaland’s incredible tally of 52 goals for Manchester City in the previous season played a pivotal role in helping Pep Guardiola’s side secure a historic treble.

    Messi is currently representing MLS side Inter Miami, and since they didn’t qualify for the playoffs, he’s making the most of some well-deserved downtime.

    He is expected to feature in Argentina’s matches against Uruguay and Brazil in November.

  • Video: Didier Drogba confirms as presenter of men’s Ballon d’Or

    Video: Didier Drogba confirms as presenter of men’s Ballon d’Or

    Chelsea icon Didier Drogba is set to be the presenter of the 2023 Ballon d’Or, and Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi is widely expected to claim the award once again.

    The exceptionally talented Argentine forward is on track to secure his eighth Golden Ball, an incredible achievement, during an extravagant ceremony scheduled for Monday in Paris.

    Messi played a pivotal role in Argentina’s World Cup triumph in Qatar in 2022 and has quickly made an impact in the United States after leaving European football to join Major League Soccer (MLS).

    Messi seems to be the favourite to outshine Manchester City’s striker, Erling Haaland, for the most prestigious individual accolade. Haaland, despite an impressive 2022–23 season with 52 goals and a treble win, is anticipated to fall short of claiming the title of the world’s best player.

    Haaland and Messi


    Former Chelsea striker Drogba has revealed that he will be given the honour of overseeing the handing over of the famous Ballon d’Or trophy, with the iconic Ivorian saying: “On Monday, we’re going to present the 67th ceremony of the Ballon d’Or France Football. And we are going to talk about the last two World Cups.

    “We’re going to talk about the treble of Manchester City. And amazing individual performances in men and women’s football as well. So I see you on Monday. You ready? Who’s going to be the next Ballon d’Or France Football?”


    While Messi is poised to claim the men’s award, it seems likely that the Ballon d’Or Féminin will be awarded to Aitana Bonmati. The 2023 World Cup champion is expected to emulate her Barcelona and Spain teammate, Alexia Putellas, as she is acknowledged as the top player in women’s football.

  • New Ballon d’Or criteria for selecting winner announced, who is the frontrunner?

    New Ballon d’Or criteria for selecting winner announced, who is the frontrunner?

    The Ballon d’Or has restated the criteria that will guide their selection of this year’s award recipient, to be announced next week.

    The grand ceremony will take place at the prestigious Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, France, where Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland are the frontrunners.

    In the Women’s Ballon d’Or category, Aitana Bonmati is the clear favourite, poised to succeed her teammate Alexia Putellas.

    Through their official social media channels, the Ballon d’Or has outlined three key factors that will determine the winner.

    Sports Brief takes a closer look at each of these criteria in relation to the leading contenders:

    1. Individual Performance, Crucial Actions, and On-Field Conduct: The jury will assess which player demonstrated superior individual performance during the 2022–2023 season. Erling Haaland stands out with his remarkable record of 52 goals in 53 appearances, showcasing exceptional individual prowess.On the other hand, Lionel Messi, with 20 goals in both Ligue 1 and the Champions League, has made a significant impact on the field.
    2. Crucial contributions to the team’s success and honours

    Lionel Messi’s most significant asset in the upcoming award considerations is his World Cup victory, undoubtedly his strongest bargaining point. During the tournament in Qatar, he played a pivotal role, contributing to every goal scored by his team. Furthermore, the Argentine star secured both the Ligue 1 and French Cup titles.

    In contrast, Erling Haaland played a crucial role in guiding Manchester City to an impressive treble, which encompassed the club’s maiden Champions League victory. The extent of the “vital role” played by each contender, a pivotal factor in the decision, will be at the discretion of the jury.

    3.  Be fair-play and classy on-field

    Both Messi and Haaland boast nearly flawless disciplinary records, having avoided receiving any red cards during the scrutinized period.

    Nevertheless, Messi found himself embroiled in a heated altercation with Louis Van Gaal during the World Cup quarterfinals. The intense match concluded with the former Barcelona captain confronting the Dutch coach, followed by reported insults directed at Wout Weghorst.

  • CR7 still in form as he marks 127 international goals in another resounding victory for Portugal

    CR7 still in form as he marks 127 international goals in another resounding victory for Portugal

    Cristiano Ronaldo remains in excellent form, as evidenced by his recent achievement of reaching 127 international goals in another impressive victory for Portugal during the Euro 2024 qualification campaign.

    Despite their prior triumph in the 2016 tournament, Portugal has already secured their spots for the upcoming summer competition in Germany.

    Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or recipient, continues to defy his age by setting an extraordinary example on the field.

    At 38 years of age, he has now amassed 200 appearances for his national team, further solidifying his status as a record-breaking goal scorer in men’s international football.

    In a commanding performance on Monday, Portugal defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 5-0, with Ronaldo contributing two more goals to his remarkable tally.

    CR7


    Reacting to that success on social media, Ronaldo has said, “Another win and great play by the whole team. First place in the group is guaranteed! We are still going strong!”

    Ronaldo’s exceptional form extends to his club performance this season, as he has notched an impressive 17 goals in as many appearances for Al-Nassr, a Saudi Arabian team.

    Reports suggest that this football legend is eager to extend his extraordinary career, both at the domestic and international levels, with the goal of participating in the 2026 World Cup finals.

  • Mbappe for Ballon d’Or over Messi, Haaland – Achraf Hakimi

    Mbappe for Ballon d’Or over Messi, Haaland – Achraf Hakimi

    Achraf Hakimi believes that Kylian Mbappe “deserves” to claim the 2023 Ballon d’Or, placing him ahead of Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland.

    The Morocco international expressed his support for Mbappe to secure football’s most prestigious individual accolade for the first time.

    This endorsement comes in light of Mbappe’s exceptional performance in the early part of the season, notably contributing to PSG’s 2-0 triumph over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League.

    Messi is currently leading the race to secure his record-extending eighth Ballon d’Or award, notably achieving success by winning the World Cup with Argentina in Qatar last year.

    Haaland is also a strong contender, having scored an impressive 56 goals during his debut season with Manchester City, leading them to a treble.

    Despite missing out on the World Cup title as France fell to Argentina in the 2023 final, Mbappe emerged as the tournament’s top scorer.

    Additionally, he netted an impressive 41 goals for PSG during the 2022–23 club season.

    Luis Enrique’s team is set to return to action on Sunday in a Ligue 1 match against Marseille.

  • Messi, Haaland stand out as 2023 Ballon d’Or award nominees

    Messi, Haaland stand out as 2023 Ballon d’Or award nominees

    Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland chief the list of 30 nominees for the 2023 Ballon d’Or award, as announced by France Football magazine. Messi’s nomination comes after being left off the shortlist last year.

    If he secures the men’s Ballon d’Or this year, it would mark his eighth win, second only to Cristiano Ronaldo with five wins. In February, Messi also claimed his second Best FIFA Men’s Player award.

    Notably, Ronaldo, currently playing for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, was excluded from the list for the first time since 2003.

    The award recipient will be unveiled at a ceremony at the Théâtre du Chatelet in Paris on October 30.

    Messi guided Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup in December, a significant achievement that had eluded him throughout his 21-year career. At club level, Messi had a mixed year.

    While at Paris Saint-Germain, the French side was eliminated from the Champions League at the round-of-16 stage for the second consecutive season. Nonetheless, he contributed to PSG securing their 11th Ligue 1 title.

    This summer, Messi left Paris to join Inter Miami on a free transfer, where he made an immediate impact, assisting the team in winning the Leagues Cup and securing a place in the U.S. Open Cup final.

    Meanwhile, Erling Haaland has also received a nomination and could present strong competition for the award. The Norwegian striker notched an impressive 52 goals in 53 games across all competitions as Manchester City clinched the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League titles.

    In his debut campaign in England, the 23-year-old broke the Premier League’s single-season scoring record with 36 goals.

    Haaland also received several individual accolades for his outstanding performances, including the PFA Player of the Year, the Premier League’s Player of the Season, and Football Writers’ Association’s Men’s Player of the Year.

    Unsurprisingly, players from Manchester City and Argentina dominate this year’s list of nominees. Seven players who contributed to City’s treble-winning season are included in the shortlist, along with four Argentine players, including Messi, who played a pivotal role in Argentina’s third World Cup triumph.

    Full list of men’s Ballon d’Or nominees:
    André Onana – Manchester United/Cameroon
    Josko Gvardiol – Manchester City/Croatia
    Karim Benzema – Al Ittihad
    Jamal Musiala – Bayern Munich/Germany
    Mohamed Salah – Liverpool/Egypt
    Jude Bellingham – Real Madrid/England
    Bukayo Saka – Arsenal/England
    Randal Kolo Muani – Paris Saint-Germain/France
    Kevin De Bruyne – Manchester City/Belgium
    Bernardo Silva – Manchester City/Portugal
    Emiliano Martínez – Aston Villa/Argentina
    Khvicha Kvaratskhelia – Napoli/Georgia
    Rúben Dias – Manchester City/Portugal
    Nicolo Barella – Inter Milan/Italy
    Erling Haaland – Manchester City/Norway
    Yassine Bounou – Al Hilal/Morocco
    Martin Ødegaard – Arsenal/Norway
    Julián Álvarez – Manchester City/Argentina
    Ilkay Gündogan – Barcelona/Germany
    Vinícius Júnior – Real Madrid/Brazil
    Lionel Messi – Inter Miami/Argentina
    Rodri – Manchester City/Spain
    Lautaro Martínez – Inter Milan/Argentina
    Antoine Griezmann – Atletico Madrid/France
    Robert Lewandowski – Barcelona/Poland
    Kylian Mbappé – Paris Saint-Germain/France
    Kim Min-jae – Napoli/South Korea
    Victor Osimhen – Napoli/Nigeria
    Luka Modric – Real Madrid/Croatia
    Harry Kane – Bayern Munich/England

  • Cristiano Ronaldo responds to Lionel Messi’s Ballon d’Or nomination

    Cristiano Ronaldo responds to Lionel Messi’s Ballon d’Or nomination

    Cristiano Ronaldo says his competition with Lionel Messi is no longer there after he was not chosen for the 2023 Ballon d’Or award.

    This year, 30 stars have been nominated for a special award given to the best player in world football.

    Messi and Ronaldo have been competing for the Ballon d’Or award for more than ten years now. Messi has won the trophy seven times, which is a record.

    Ronaldo won five Ballon d’Or awards, but even though he currently plays for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, he was not chosen as one of the 30 nominees for the 2023 award.

    Messi, who plays for Inter Miami, was included in the list because of his amazing performance in Qatar the previous year. The 36-year-old Messi played a crucial role in helping Argentina win the World Cup.

    But Ronaldo says that his longtime competition with Messi, especially when they played for Real Madrid and Barcelona, is now over.

    Ronaldo said, “I don’t look at things like that anymore, the competition between us is no longer there. ” It was nice, people enjoyed it.

    People who are fans of Cristiano Ronaldo don’t have to dislike Messi and the same goes for those who like Messi. We did a good job, we have made a big impact on the history of football.

    People from all around the world think highly of us, and that is what matters the most. He has chosen his own path and I have chosen mine, even though we have played outside of Europe.

    Based on what I observed, he has been doing good, and I have also been doing good. The tradition continues, but I don’t view the competition in the same way. We performed together many times over a period of 15 years. I’m not saying we are friends. We have never had dinner together. But we work together and have a professional relationship. We treat each other with respect.

  • USMNT boss lauds Messi’s influence on the MLS, says Argentine forward has “blown me away”

    USMNT boss lauds Messi’s influence on the MLS, says Argentine forward has “blown me away”

    Lionel Messi’s influence on Major League Soccer (MLS) has left USMNT manager Greg Berhalter thoroughly impressed. The Argentine sensation’s on-field brilliance for The Herons has captured the attention of the United States.

    Messi’s contributions have been instrumental in guiding Miami to victory in the League Cup, and he has amassed an impressive record of 11 goals and three assists in just 10 appearances across various competitions, including the MLS.

    Berhalter commended the owners of Inter Miami for successfully attracting the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner to the USA. He expressed his pleasant surprise at witnessing the significant impact Messi has had on the top-tier soccer scene in America.

    “It’s been amazing exposure. … Overall, it’s just blown me away by the impact that Lionel Messi can have. And not only him but when you bring (Sergio) Busquets and (Jordi) Alba into it, how it can translate onto the field,” he added.

    After witnessing Inter Miami’s triumph in the Leagues Cup final, Greg Berhalter, the USMNT manager, made a significant decision.

    Following Inter Miami’s victory over Nashville, Berhalter included both Drake Callender and midfielder Benjamin Cremaschi in the upcoming USMNT squad for friendly matches against Uzbekistan and Oman.

    Cremaschi’s diligent work ethic has caught the coach’s attention, and the young midfielder’s evident progress throughout the current season has earned him a well-deserved call-up to the national team.

    “It’s not only you know, post-Messi, I think even pre-Messi,” Berhalter said. “You see that he had some ability, he had a great assist in the game against D.C. United early in the year. Just a really dynamic player and a guy who gives everything on the pitch,” he said.

    After drawing a blank against Nashville in the MLS, Messi would be eager to get back his scoring boots against LAFC on Sunday evening in the competition.

  • Harrison Afful details how he got Messi to exchange shirts after Inter Miami, Charlotte FC clash

    Harrison Afful details how he got Messi to exchange shirts after Inter Miami, Charlotte FC clash


    Lionel Messi’s tendency     to desist from exchanging jerseys with opponents unless asked has been extensively documented.

    This explains why Ghanaian footballer Harrison Afful became a trending topic on Ghana’s Twitter.

    A camera captured a moment showing Afful exchanging jerseys with the football icon during a League Cup match where Afful represented Charlotte FC against Messi’s Inter Miami.

    Despite his team’s 4-0 loss, the noteworthy aspect of the match was the intriguing interaction between the experienced player and the seven-time Ballon d’Or awardee after the game concluded.

    “I remember before the match started, Messi gave me a wink, and I winked back at him. I think as the game progressed, we somehow got attuned to each other’s presence, given that I was playing as a left-back and my responsibility included marking him.

    “At some point during the match, I approached him for his jersey, and he agreed,” Afful enthusiastically recounted to GHANASoccernet.com.

    “After halftime, just before the second half began, we exchanged more winks, something that players often do. So, after the game, I approached him, and he kept his word.”

    Afful then added with a smile, “Messi had the option to give his jersey to any player, but I suppose he showed me kindness.

    “I can’t predict what he intends to do with my jersey, but it’s truly an honour to possess the shirt of one of the most exceptionally talented individuals to have graced the game.”

  • Ronaldo acknowledges likely United exit but dubs lack of suitors as ‘garbage’

    Cristiano Ronaldo acknowledged a Manchester United future appears unlikely after his scathing interview, though he rubbished earlier reports of a move away as “garbage”.

    Five-time Ballon d’Or winner has caused a stir at Old Trafford after hitting out at the club’s senior figures, current manager Erik ten Hag and former boss Ralf Rangnick.

    In a wide-ranging interview with Piers Morgan on Talk TV, the Portugal international said he felt “betrayed” by United and claimed the club had made “zero progress” since Alex Ferguson left in 2013.

    Amid a host of other complaints, Ronaldo suggested he may no longer be a United player after the World Cup break with Portugal, who open their Group H campaign against Ghana in Qatar next Thursday.

    “It’s hard, it’s hard for me to say that I will not be back to Manchester United. But regardless, let’s see what’s going to happen,” the 37-year-old said.

    “It’s difficult to tell right now, because my mood is right now to the World Cup. It’s probably my last World Cup, of course, my fifth World Cup.

    “I don’t know what’s going to happen after the World Cup, but as I told you before, and I will say again, the fans will be always in my heart.

    “I hope that they never forget the things that I will continue to do it. Not only in the past, but in the present too. Manchester will be always in my side, the fans will be always on my side.

    “It doesn’t matter what’s going to happen. When I arrived at Manchester United, I am always available to help the team to do good things, to put them in the right spots to compete with the best teams.

    “But it’s hard when they cut your legs and don’t like you to shine and don’t listen to your advice.

    “I think I have words to advise the club because the trophies are one individual and collective. I think I can help a lot, but the infrastructure is not good.”

    Ongoing reports linked the unsettled Ronaldo with the likes of Chelsea, Juventus and Atletico Madrid among a plethora of Europe’s elite clubs.

    Former side Sporting CP were another name touted, alongside Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich, though the ex-Real Madrid attacker refuted numerous reports.

    “What they say the last three months is complete garbage and wrong,” he added. “They say that they offer me this and that, and many presidents and directors speak about, they reject me.

    “It’s a complete lie, they lie. Because this is not what’s happened. I have a few clubs that they want me to sign and I didn’t go because I feel comfortable here.

    “I was motivated to do a great season here. But they continue to repeat that nobody wants Cristiano. How don’t they want a player who scored 32 goals last year, with the national team?”

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Cristiano Ronaldo (@cristiano)

    While Ronaldo took aim at the speculation and his current employers United, the forward insisted he has no doubts over his capabilities.

    He continued: “For me, it’s a stupid question. What do people say? They are not the same. Nobody is the same, day-by-day we’re getting old. Every one of us, it is normal. You have to adapt.

    “And I think nobody in this game has this brain that adapts to his age. I’m not wanting to be cocky to say that I’m the same as when I was 20. Of course, no.

    “I adapt and be smart to know my strength, what I’m good at. I’m still playing a high level and I score goals, and I will continue to score goals.

    “If my mind is clear and happy. And if the people surround me, they’re helping me to be a successful player, especially the coach, the president, the directors…

    “But when you feel that the energy around you won’t help, it’s difficult for you to be yourself, which is what has happened with me.”

    Source: Livescore

     

  • Neymar hails ‘deserved’ Benzema victory in Ballon d’Or but slams low Vincius ranking

    Neymar hailed the “deserved” choice of Karim Benzema as Ballon d’Or winner, after the Real Madrid star claimed the prestigious honour for the first time on Monday.

    But the Paris Saint-Germain attacker criticised the eighth-place finish for Benzema’s Madrid team-mate Vinicius Junior, with the Brazil international declaring his fellow Selecao star should have finished in the top three at a “minimum”.

    Benzema was crowned the world’s greatest player for the 2021-22 season at a ceremony earlier this week, succeeding Neymar’s PSG club-mate Lionel Messi while beating out Bayern Munich’s Sadio Mane to top spot.

    It came after a campaign that saw him lead Carlo Ancelotti’s side to success in LaLiga and the Champions League, scoring 44 goals and adding 15 assists.

    Neymar, who was not nominated this year, took to social media a day after the presentation to hail Benzema’s victory, but added that Vinicius, another key Madrid star last term, deserved greater recognition.

    “Benzema deserved [it – he’s the] crack!” the attacker wrote on Twitter. “Now, for Vini Jr to be eighth – it’s not possible! Minimum top three!”

    After arguably the toughest domestic season of his career to date last term, Neymar looks to be back to his best this season, with nine goals and seven assists in Ligue 1 so far.

    Benzema meanwhile has struggled with fitness issues, restricting the 34-year-old to just four goals and one assist in LaLiga.

    Source: Livescore

     

  • Courtois has Casillas backing after Ballon d’Or snub

    Thibaut Courtois suggested the Yashin Trophy had been “invented” to appease goalkeepers as he struggled to understand his seventh-placed Ballon d’Or finish – scepticism that was shared by Iker Casillas.

    Keeper Courtois’ Real Madrid team-mate Karim Benzema took the top award in Monday’s Paris ceremony, named the best player in the world by France Football.

    Benzema was a deserving winner, as Courtois himself acknowledged, having scored 44 goals in 46 games as Madrid won LaLiga and the Champions League in 2021-22. He netted two hat-tricks among a record-equalling 10 goals in the Champions League knockout stage.

    But Courtois was also a part of those two triumphs and had an equally vital role in the European success, making nine saves in the final against Liverpool – a record since Opta data was first gathered in 2003-04 and worth 2.5 prevented goals, according to expected goals on target data.

    The Belgium international beat Liverpool’s Alisson to the Yashin Trophy, awarded to the world’s best goalkeeper, yet he felt he should have fared better in the overall ranking.

    “First of all, I want to say that I am very happy for Karim Benzema,” Courtois told Cadena SER.

    “It seems that it is better to score a goal than to stop one. It is a battle that remains to be won. Seeing the logic of the vote, I had no chance of finishing very high, nor of winning it of course.

    “I’m not saying I had to win it! But you win La Liga, the Champions League, your team wins thanks to your saves… and you only finish seventh. You’re not even on the podium.

    “In the top 10, there wasn’t even a defender. At least this year they invented the trophy for the best goalkeeper.”

    Meanwhile, on Twitter, Courtois shared a post from former Madrid keeper Casillas, which read: “I’m happy for Thibaut Courtois! By far he is the best goalkeeper in the world.

    “What I’m not happy about is not having put him on the final podium for the Ballon d’Or. I still don’t understand what those who choose this award are based on.”

    Source: Livescore

     

  • Messi misses out of 30-man Ballon d’Or shortlist for first time since 2005

    Lionel Messi has been excluded from the Ballon d’Or shortlist as his name was not mentioned among the France Football’s 30-man list on Friday.

    The Paris Saint-Germain star has never been left out a Ballon d’Or shortlist since 2005 as a seven times award winner during the period.

    His team-mate Neymar was also among those to not make the list, while the Argentine’s former La Liga rival Cristiano Ronaldo did make the list.

    Messi’s performance

    Playing in his first-ever season away from Barcelona, Messi did not meet his own lofty standards when it comes to goals during his debut season at PSG.

    He did, however, provide plenty assists, as he set up 14 goals in addition to the 11 he scored in his first season in France, one which ended with a Ligue 1 title.

    Internationally, he helped Argentina win the Finalissima while scoring seven times in 15 matches.

    Messi’s Ballon d’Or history

    The Argentine earned his first Ballon d’Or nomination in 2005, his first season as a regular starter at Barcelona.

    Messi finished in the top three every year from 2007-2018, winning the award five times during that span.

    After missing out in 2018, he won the award in both 2019 and 2021, with the Ballon d’Or not being handed out in 2020 as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

  • Ronaldo, Mane, Salah, others on Ballon d’Or shortlist

    France Football have announced the nominees for the 2022 men’s Ballon d’Or, with Europe’s best player set to be crowned at an official presentation ceremony in October.

    Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo has found his name on this year’s list for Europe’s best player but his arch rival, Lionel Messi, considered to be one of the Greatest Of All Times (G.O.A.T) has missed the opportunity to contest for this year’s Ballon d’Or.

    Messi has secured seven Golden Ball while Ronaldo has won six Golden Ball.

    Others featured on the list are Mohammed Salah, Sadio Mane, Robert Lewandowski, Karim Benzema, Kevin De Bruyne, among others.

    Check out the full list of nominees below.

    Thibaut Courtois – Real Madrid

    Rafael Leao – AC Milan

    Christopher Nkunku – RB Leipzig

    Mohamed Salah – Liverpool

    Joshua Kimmich – Bayern Munich

    Trent Alexander-Arnold – Liverpool

    Bernardo Silva – Manchester City

    Luis Diaz – Liverpool

    Robert Lewandowski – Barcelona

    Riyad Mahrez – Manchester City

    Casemiro – Real Madrid

    Heung-Min Son – Tottenham

    Fabinho – Liverpool

    Karim Benzema – Real Madrid

    Mike Maignan – AC Milan

    Harry Kane – Tottenham

    Darwin Nunez – Liverpool

    Phil Foden – Manchester City

    Sadio Mane – Bayern Munich

    Sebastian Haller – Dortmund

    Luka Modric – Real Madrid

    Antonio Rudiger – Real Madrid

    Cristiano Ronaldo – Manchester United

    Kevin De Bruyne – Manchester City

    Dusan Vlahovic – Juventus

    Virgil van Dijk – Liverpool

    Joao Cancelo – Manchester City

    Kylian Mbappe – PSG

    Erling Haaland – Manchester City\

     

     

  • Messi is a better player than Ronaldo, says Ghana legend Mohammed Polo

    Ghana football legend Mohammed Polo has settled on Lionel Messi as a better player compared to Cristiano Ronaldo.

    Ronaldo and Messi have dominated the football world for the past decade, having won the Balon d’or a combined 12 times.

    Asked about his opinion on the matter, Polo, who has often been compared to the duo, picked Messi as the superior footballer.

    The 65-year-old believes although both players have different styles, Messi is superior because he has more to his game.

    “There shouldn’t be a debate on this. These are different qualities of players. Ronaldo’s style is different from that of Messi. What makes football interesting is entertainment,” the 1978 Africa Cup of Nations [AFCON] winner said as quoted by Ghanaweb.

    “The dribbling and stuff are where you see the art of football. This is what I want to introduce because for Ghana’s brand of football there should be skills, flair, artistry, creativity, and confidence.

    “When you have these four the Ghanaian brand of football is complete. For Ronaldo, if he does not score, he contributes nothing. But Messi, if he doesn’t score he will create a goal, and then the art side will show. He has the artistry of football which will make people will pay to watch him.”

    He added: “Of course [Messi is better], but you cannot take anything away from Ronaldo because he makes football interesting as well. Comparatively, I don’t see why they should be compared.” he added.

    Source: ModernGhana

  • Women’s Ballon d’Or: Alexia Putellas wins award for being best female footballer in 2021

    Barcelona captain Alexia Putellas won the Women’s Ballon d’Or, awarded to the best female footballer in 2021.

    Putellas, 27, scored as Barca beat Chelsea 4-0 to secure their first Champions League crown.

    She ended the 2020-21 season as the highest-scoring midfielder in Europe with 26 goals in all competitions and was also named Uefa’s Women’s Player of the Year and Midfielder of the Year.

    Team-mate Jennifer Hermoso came second, with Chelsea striker Sam Kerr third.

    Arsenal forward Vivianne Miedema was fourth, while the Chelsea trio of Pernille Harder, Jessie Fleming and Fran Kirby were seventh, ninth and 10th respectively.

    “I’m sure I won’t be the last Barcelona player to win the prize. This is just the beginning,” said Putellas, who was one of five Barca players nominated for the award.

    Former England midfielder Karen Carney, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live’s Monday Night Club, praised Putellas.

    “She has been brilliant for Barcelona,” said Carney.

    Arsenal forward Vivianne Miedema was fourth, while the Chelsea trio of Pernille Harder, Jessie Fleming and Fran Kirby were seventh, ninth and 10th respectively.

    “I’m sure I won’t be the last Barcelona player to win the prize. This is just the beginning,” said Putellas, who was one of five Barca players nominated for the award.

    Former England midfielder Karen Carney, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live’s Monday Night Club, praised Putellas.

    “She has been brilliant for Barcelona,” said Carney.

    “She has been phenomenal playing that attacking midfield role. She is so key to Barcelona – and she can get a goal or thread a pass.”

    Alexia Putellas captained Barcelona to their first Champions League success as they beat Chelsea 4-0 in the final

    Women’s Ballon D’Or

    Women’s Ballon D’Or

    1. Alexia Putellas (Barcelona / Spain, midfielder)
    2. Jennifer Hermoso (Barcelona / Spain, forward)
    3. Sam Kerr (Chelsea / Australia, forward)
    4. Vivianne Miedema (Arsenal / Netherlands, forward)
    5. Lieke Martens (Barcelona / Netherlands, midfielder)
    6. Christine Sinclair (Portland Thorns / Canada, forward)
    7. Pernille Harder (Chelsea / Denmark, midfielder)
    8. Ashley Lawrence (Paris St-Germain / Canada, defender)
    9. Jessie Fleming (Chelsea / Canada, midfielder)
    10. Fran Kirby (Chelsea / England, forward)

    Source: bbc