Paulo Futre believes Cristiano Ronaldo’s Ballon d’Or victory is fully deserved but a year overdue.
Speaking to Radio Marca, the former Atletico Madrid midfielder congratulated Ronaldo for winning the prize, insisting it was a long time coming, and revealing the whole of Portugal is celebrating.
“It’s a joy for the whole country, not just Cristiano.
“Believe me, it’s fair. He’s deserved it since 2012.
“During that year he had a great League season, scoring key and important goals, including at Camp Nou.
“He also had a great year for the national team with a Euros where Portugal only lost a place in the final to Spain on penalties. That’s down to luck.
“It’s also a tribute to Eusebio.”
Futre believes it was Ronaldo’s performance in helping Portugal qualify for the World Cup that tilted the balance in his favour and away from Franck Ribery.
“There was talk of Ribery but Ronaldo was key to Portugal making the World Cup.
“I think those two games were the difference.
“If I had to sum up this year’s Ballon d’Or it would be justice. He scored more goals than Ribery and [Lionel] Messi this year.]
Futre also praised Ronaldo for letting the watching audience see a little of him away from football, with his emotional response to being handed the award.
“We have seen Cristiano the person, as normally few people know him.
“He’s a great human being. A great friend and a great son.
“Normally he doesn’t show his feelings but the tears were there.”
Jupp Heynckes was given the Coach’s award and while Futre feels it was a fair choice, he believes Atletico’s Diego Simeone should have been considered.
“I think the award for Heynckes is right but Simeone should have been there.
“The award is often a lie but Jupp was the best this year.
“Second would have to be el Cholo. There are no words to describe his work.
“They go game by game but in the locker room they believe they can achieve something great.”
