Legendary Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo has expressed that the Ballon d’Or should be awarded to a player from the team that wins the UEFA Champions League.
Ronaldo, who has won the prestigious award five times, argued that since the Champions League is widely regarded as the most competitive football tournament in the world, its winners should be at the forefront of individual accolades.
“The Ballon d’Or, in my opinion, has lost some of its prestige. A player who wins the Champions League and performs well should naturally be a top contender,” the former Real Madrid icon stated.
Speaking ahead of Portugal’s UEFA Nations League clash with Spain, Ronaldo emphasized the importance of the Champions League in determining the best player in the world.
“For me, the Ballon d’Or should go to someone who has won the Champions League. That competition is the pinnacle of club football. This award has lost its value because players who shine elsewhere are often favored over those who achieve success in the UCL,” he said.
The Al Nassr star also cautioned fans and the media against putting too much pressure on young Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal. While acknowledging the teenager’s extraordinary talent, Ronaldo stressed the importance of patience and growth.
“Lamine Yamal is doing very well and making the most of his abilities, but we should let him grow at his own pace. Don’t overwhelm him with expectations. He has a long career ahead, and his talent is undeniable,” Ronaldo advised.
Ronaldo’s remarks come amid intense debate over the 2025 Ballon d’Or. The two leading contenders are Ousmane Dembélé, who was instrumental in Paris Saint-Germain’s treble-winning season, and 17-year-old Yamal, who had an exceptional season with Barcelona, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup.
While many analysts believe Dembele’s contributions to PSG’s Champions League triumph make him the deserving winner, others argue that Yamal’s consistency and maturity throughout the season give him the edge.
As the Ballon d’Or race heats up, Ronaldo’s comments have added further weight to the ongoing discussion, potentially influencing how both fans and voters perceive the criteria for football’s most prestigious individual prize.
Source: Thepressradio.com
