News APP

NewsApp (Free)

Read news as it happens
Download NewsApp

Available on  gplay

This article was first published 9 years ago
Rediff.com  » Sports » Will Neuer surprise Ronaldo and Messi to win Ballon d'Or? Vote!

Will Neuer surprise Ronaldo and Messi to win Ballon d'Or? Vote!

By Rediff Sports Desk
Last updated on: January 12, 2015 17:37 IST
Get Rediff News in your Inbox:

Manuel Neuer, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo

Manuel Neuer, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Who will be FIFA’s world player of the year?

Manuel Neuer, Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi?

The winner, who will take home the Ballon D'Or trophy, will be known on the evening of Monday, January 12, at a ceremony in Zurich.

Neuer is the first goalkeeper since 2002 to make the final short list for the award, also featuring Ronaldo and Messi.

The Germany and Bayern Munich goalkeeper helped his country win last year’s World Cup and often doubled up as a sweeper, rushing out of his penalty area to intercept opponents' attacks.

He is the first goalkeeper to make the final three since compatriot Oliver Kahn was included on the shortlist in 2002.

Italy's Gianluigi Buffon was nominated for the old France Football award in 2006, although at the time that was restricted only to players based with European clubs.

Argentina and Barcelona forward Messi, winner on four occasions, made the shortlist for the eighth time in a row and Portugal's Ronaldo, winner in 2008 and last year, for the fourth time running.

Germany coach Joachim Loew, Real Madrid's Carlo Ancelotti and Atletico Madrid's Diego Simeone are in contention for the Coach of the Year award.

The FIFA award was founded in 1991 and merged with France Football's Ballon D'Or in 2010.

Who in your opinion, dear readers, will win the prestigious prize?

Take your pick and vote now!

Get Rediff News in your Inbox:
Rediff Sports Desk

INDIAN PREMIER LEAGUE 2024

INDIAN PREMIER LEAGUE 2024