José Mourinho’s decision to prioritize preparation for the Copa del Rey match against Celta Vigo over attending the Ballon d’Or presentation reflects his commitment to his coaching responsibilities. It’s not uncommon for managers to prioritize team preparations and matches over individual awards ceremonies.
The presence of three players from La Liga—Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Andrés Iniesta—in the final stages of the Ballon d’Or competition underlines the competitive nature of Spanish football during that period.
The inclusion of José Mourinho, Vicente del Bosque, and Pep Guardiola among the nominees for the Coach of the Year award highlights the significant impact these managers have had on their respective teams and the recognition they’ve received in the football community.
