We’ve heard a number of rumors regarding nearly every player outside of the Barclays Premier League linked to transfers to get them to move to England, but there is some clear evidence about the latest speculation this week.
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Goalkeeper Claudio Bravo, forward Neymar and head coach Luis Enrique also claimed prizes at the ceremony.
He was instrumental in helping Barca win a stunning treble last season, including the Champions League, after starring alongside team-mates Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.
“Being nominated for the Ballon d’Or means a lot”, the Brazilian said.
“Luis Suarez deserved also to be among the top three, but do not detract from Cristiano Ronaldo, who also deserved it”.
The Argentina worldwide was named as one of the three players up for the prestigious individual prize on Monday, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar the other two. “I know Suarez is missing and I was waiting for his name to be called but as for me, this is one of the happiest days of my life”, Neymar said.
In all competitions that goal tally rose to 122 – a new Spanish record – as Barca won the European Champions League as well as the Spanish Cup.
“I did probably the best season of my career which is good and I was the highest scorer in Europe (but) it’s all about votes”.
On Monday afternoon, Federation Internationale de Football Association named the trio as the final three for this year’s award, which will be announced at the Ballon d’Or Gala on 11 January.
24 – How old Ronaldo was when he collected his first Ballon d’Or award in 2008, while still a Manchester United player.
And Valencia’s Sofiane Feghouli was voted the top African player.
Ronaldo and Neymar are both priced at 10/1 – a clear representation of Messi’s incredible year.
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“I’m proud to receive this award ahead of so many important players in La Liga”, Messi, who clinched the awards for the sixth time, told reporters.
