The 2015 Ballon d’Or gala may be in January of next year, but the debate as to who should scoop up the award is already heating up.
Former Barcelona manager Johann Cruyff publicly showed his support for Argentine superstar Lionel Messi, whilst also criticizing Cristiano Ronaldo. Now, team-mate Neymar has followed suit by choosing La Pulga as favorite to clinch the prestigious prize.
According to the Selecao captain, Messi’s exploits last season, which saw the Blaugrana win the treble, is enough to reserve him a record-breaking fifth Ballon d’Or title.
Speaking to Mundo Deportivo (per Goal), Neymar said:
"Leo is the favourite. This year, the Ballon d'Or is reserved for Messi, the best player in the world has already been named. For everything he's done, Leo deserves it.
"I hope to grow playing alongside Messi. He's the best and an idol for me. And if I learn a lot then maybe one day I can win.
"Of course I want to be in the top three, that would be great for me."
Barcelona’s number 10 is currently sidelined with a knee ligament injury, which has ruled him out of action until El Clasico on November 23.
The Catalan giants, in Messi’s absence, have stumbled in the Liga BBVA race, losing 2-1 to Sevilla before the international break to drop to fourth. Nonetheless, Neymar promises to step up and assume Barcelona’s goalscoring responsibility whilst their 28-year-old talisman striker returns to fitness.
"Since I was young, I've always assumed responsibilities, for Santos, for the national team," said the former Santos ace.
"But here it's different, we know our responsibility, what we have to do on the pitch, and I'm going to do everything to help my team-mates.
"The challenge doesn't scare me even though I know it's difficult.
"Leo's fine. It's a delicate injury but he looks good and looks to be very happy with his recovery."
