“I thought it was a political decision”- Frank Ribery reiterates he deserved the 2013 Ballon d’Or more than Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi
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Franck Ribery, a standout for Salernitana, claims he was more deserving of the 2013 Ballon d’Or than Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo: “Something odd occurred…”
The former international for France has recently started his second season with Salernitana and fourth straight season in Italy. The legendary 39-year-old won several medals with Bayern Munich, including nine Bundesliga championships and one Champions League.
Despite winning the European Championship that year, neither Ribery nor his colleague Arjen Robben were awarded the Ballon d’Or; Cristiano Ronaldo was.
Did Frank Ribery deserve to win the Ballon d’Or over Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo?
After the former Real Madrid player and Leo Messi, Ribery came in third. The Frenchman is still regretful and believes that something odd occurred before to the award presentation.
“It was unjust; I had a fantastic season, and I ought to have won. Voting was given more time, and an odd occurrence transpired. He stated to La Gazzetta dello Sport, “I thought that it was a political decision.
Ribery recorded 43 games and 11 goals for the Bavarians that season, contributing significantly to their treble-winning campaign. When the Azzurri won their fourth World Cup in 2006, the Granata superstar was on the field playing against Italy in Berlin.
“France played better, but that’s what football is about. Italy were so strong mentally and I was replaced by David Trezeguet, who missed a penalty. However, David had scored the Golden Goal against Italy at Euro 2000. These things happen in football. If I think about Gigi Buffon’s save on [Zizou] Zidane…mamma mia!
“Gigi and I have the same mentality, we are happy on the pitch and I am waiting for him in Serie A next season. Ribery is about to begin his second season in Salerno after last season’s incredible survival.
“I’ve found great affection here. Everyone lives for football,” he said.
“When we don’t win, I see the sadness in the fans’ eyes and this makes me so sad. I’ve never accepted defeats. Last season, I understood that it was hard to gain survival, but I gave everything to make it.
“It’s not like winning a trophy, but that feat will forever remain in my heart.”
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