Franck Ribéry failed to appear as scheduled today for the commencement of his trial with Zahia. Despite this, he is grappling with the disappointment of not clinching the 2013 Ballon d’Or, which was awarded to Cristiano Ronaldo. Speaking to Munich’s Abendzeitung, Ribéry expressed a mix of emotions: “I’m not exactly sad, but the outcome stings. It hurts, especially for my family, my wife, my children, and Bayern. I won five titles, and being among the top three finalists made me proud. I feel I deserved to win the Ballon d’Or.”
Ribéry also questioned the selection process for the FIFPro eleven, wondering aloud, “How can there be only three Bayern players when we achieved so much and made history?” According to him, players like Alaba, Müller, Robben, and Lewandowski should have been included.
Recalling his earlier sentiments, Ribéry emphasized, “What more could I have done than winning everything with Bayern? I’m not selfish; this title wasn’t my primary goal. I’d rather secure victories with Bayern and become a world champion. That’s what truly matters.”
He added, “Sure, I would have loved to win, but it’s okay. We, the Bayern players, myself included, are simply proud to have been part of this event.” Ribéry expressed hope for another opportunity next year, perhaps securing the Ballon d’Or.
After the ceremony yesterday, he chose to remain silent and did not offer any comments.
