There’s
no doubting Ronaldo’s qualities as one of the world’s greatest players ever.
His track record and accolades speak for themselves but I have to disagree with
the voters.
Franck
“Scarface” Ribery should have been the one lifting that beautiful trophy last
night based on his exploits in 2013 for Bayern Munich and France.
Now
let’s look at the criteria for the judging process which states that candidates
must be judged on: “Performances for club and/or national team (particularly in
important matches), fair play and general level of performance in 2013.’’
Now
let’s look at Franck’s record in 2013.
Bundesliga,
Champions League, German Cup, Uefa Super Cup, Club World Cup winner with Bayern
Munich. Not forgetting how he helped France grab their ticket to the World Cup
in Brazil 2014.
His
individual accolades included the Bundesliga Player of the Year, Uefa Player of
the Year (Europe) and the MVP for the Club World Cup.
Over
and above the accolades, Ribery’s performances last year were truly world class
along with his 22 goals. He may not have scored as many goals as Ronaldo (66
goals) or Messi (42) but the way he troubled defenders with skill and pace,
created chances for team mates and even tracked back in defence (something
Ronaldo and Messi don’t have to do in their clubs’ playing systems) made him
the most complete individual and team player of the year.
Still
not convinced? Take a look at these stats compiled by the BBC:
·
Ribery won more games (45) than Ronaldo (40)
or Messi (26).
·
Ribéry made more dribbles (1,084) than
Ronaldo (252) and Messi (331)
·
Ribery created more chances (149 to Ronaldo’s
94 and Messi’s 70)
·
Ribery made more passes (2,903 to Messi’s
2,136 and Ronaldo’s 1901) and made more assists (18 to the others’ 15).
Judging
on stats and general performances for 2013, it’s clear that Ribery was indeed
robbed of the Ballon d’Or title for 2013, jealous down!
What’s
even worse is the Frenchman will probably never reach the same level of form
again. 2013 was his peak year and he deserved to be honoured for his exploits.
