Former Barcelona and Real Madrid winger Luis Figo has said that if the Ballon d’Or is viewed as a prize for individuals, Cristiano Ronaldo could win it.
Figo, in a statement to EFE reported by Mundo Deportivo, acknowledged that one of the two Barcelona nominees – Lionel Messi and Neymar – are strong candidates, but suggested the winner would differ depending on the criteria used to judge.
“They are three magnificent players. It’s logical that if it’s based on trophies won as a team, it would go to a Barca player,” the ex-Portugal international admitted.
“But if one chooses to emphasise individual records such as goals scored, Ronaldo can win.”
Figo, who also represented Sporting Lisbon and Inter in his playing days, also named a handful of players who have caught his eye in 2015.
“I really like [Marco] Verratti, Neymar and [Douglas] Costa,” he revealed.
“But I think Ronaldo and Messi are a step ahead of the rest.”
