Ballon d’Or 2014 Debate Heats Up: Ronaldo vs. Neuer?
The release of the 23-man shortlist for the 2014 Ballon d’Or has reignited fierce debate, with opinions sharply divided — especially between those favoring Cristiano Ronaldo and supporters of Manuel Neuer.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti left no room for doubt regarding his preference:
“There’s no need to think about it this year when you consider the goals scored and trophies lifted by Cristiano Ronaldo.”
Ronaldo had a sensational 2014, helping Real Madrid win the Champions League, Copa del Rey, and UEFA Super Cup, while scoring prolifically throughout the calendar year.
But others are not so easily convinced.
FIFA President Sepp Blatter voiced support for Germany’s World Cup-winning goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, expressing disappointment that Neuer didn’t win the World Cup Golden Ball:
“I was surprised by the decision to give it to Messi. I consider it incorrect.”
Meanwhile, UEFA President Michel Platini echoed a traditional view:
“In World Cup years, the Ballon d’Or should go to someone who shone at the tournament. Germany won. Portugal and Ronaldo did not shine.”
The divide seems clear: form and silverware at club level (Ronaldo) vs. World Cup excellence (Neuer and other German players). With Lionel Messi also lurking in the background, the final decision — to be revealed in a few months — promises to fuel even more passionate discussion.
