My TOP 10 Ballon d'Or 2012

This is my ranking, my opinion on the Ballon d'Or of the year 2012. This ranking is based on the calendar year, not the season. What counts for this ranking is the player's regularity over the calendar year, the number of matches played, the ability to raise his level in big games, statistics (goals, assists, clean sheets, goals conceded, etc.) and trophies won (collective and individual).

In 2012, Mesut Özil showcased his brilliance as one of the most creative and technically gifted playmakers in world football. Leading Real Madrid, he was the heartbeat of their midfield, orchestrating attacks with his exceptional vision, precise passing, and ability to unlock defenses effortlessly. His dribbling and movement made him a constant threat, weaving through opposition lines with elegance and intelligence. Özil’s ability to control the tempo of matches and deliver game-changing moments ensured that 2012 was a standout year in his career, reinforcing his reputation as one of the most elegant and influential midfielders of his generation.

In 2012, Robin van Persie delivered a year of sheer brilliance, proving why he was one of the most clinical and complete strikers in world football. Leading Arsenal, he carried the team with his lethal finishing, intelligent movement, and ability to deliver in crucial moments. His performances earned him the PFA Player of the Year award, solidifying his status as the best player in England that season. His defining moment came in the summer when he made a high-profile move to Manchester United, a decision that sparked controversy among Arsenal fans. However, he seamlessly adapted to his new club and continued his dominance, playing a pivotal role in United’s Premier League-winning campaign. His ability to score from all angles, create chances, and lead the attack made 2012 a landmark year in his career, reinforcing his reputation as one of the most clinical forwards of his generation.

In 2012, Andrea Pirlo delivered a year of midfield brilliance, proving why he was one of the most intelligent and technically gifted playmakers in world football. Leading Juventus, he played a crucial role in their Serie A title-winning campaign, dictating the tempo with his precise passing, vision, and tactical awareness. His performances in Euro 2012 were legendary, where he orchestrated Italy’s run to the final, delivering a masterclass against England, including his iconic Panenka penalty. His ability to control games, deliver pinpoint assists, and perform under pressure made him indispensable. Pirlo’s combination of composure, technical brilliance, and leadership made 2012 a standout year in his illustrious career, reinforcing his reputation as one of the most elegant midfielders of his generation.

In 2012, Neymar delivered a year of dazzling performances, proving why he was one of the most electrifying talents in world football. Leading Santos, he mesmerized fans with his breathtaking dribbling, creativity, and ability to single-handedly change games. His performances in the Copa Libertadores and Brazilian league showcased his flair, agility, and technical brilliance, making him one of the most exciting players to watch. On the international stage, Neymar shined in the London Olympics, guiding Brazil to the final with his decisive goals and assists. His combination of skill, vision, and leadership made 2012 a landmark year in his career, reinforcing his status as one of the most dynamic players in world football.

In 2012, Radamel Falcao cemented his status as the undisputed King of the Europa League, delivering one of the most dominant performances in the competition’s history. Leading Atlético Madrid, he played a pivotal role in their Europa League triumph, scoring two goals in the final against Athletic Bilbao, including a stunning left-footed strike that left defenders helpless. His ability to thrive under pressure and deliver in crucial moments showcased his extraordinary finishing and movement. Beyond his brilliance in Europe, he was relentless in La Liga, consistently producing world-class performances and proving why he was one of the most feared strikers of his generation. 2012 was the year Falcao ruled the Europa League, reinforcing his reputation as one of the deadliest strikers in world football.

In 2012, Iker Casillas delivered a year of goalkeeping excellence, proving why he was one of the most reliable and commanding shot-stoppers in world football. Leading Real Madrid, he played a crucial role in their La Liga-winning campaign, providing leadership and crucial saves throughout the season. His defining moment came in Euro 2012, where he captained Spain to their third consecutive international trophy, keeping a clean sheet in the final against Italy and making decisive saves throughout the tournament. His ability to remain calm under pressure, organize his defense, and deliver match-winning performances made 2012 a standout year in his illustrious career, reinforcing his reputation as one of the greatest goalkeepers of his generation.

In 2012, Xavi Hernández continued to showcase his midfield brilliance, proving why he was one of the most intelligent and technically gifted playmakers in world football. Leading Barcelona, he played a crucial role in their Copa del Rey triumph, dictating the tempo with his precise passing, vision, and ability to control games. His performances extended to Euro 2012, where he orchestrated Spain’s dominant run to the title, delivering a masterclass in the final against Italy, setting up key goals and ensuring Spain’s control of the match. His ability to dictate play, maintain composure under pressure, and deliver game-changing moments made 2012 another standout year in his illustrious career, reinforcing his reputation as one of the most elegant midfielders of his generation.

In 2012, Andrés Iniesta delivered a year of midfield brilliance, proving why he was one of the most intelligent and technically gifted playmakers in world football. Leading Barcelona, he played a crucial role in their Copa del Rey triumph, dictating the tempo with his precise passing, vision, and ability to control games. His performances extended to Euro 2012, where he orchestrated Spain’s dominant run to the title, delivering a masterclass in the final against Italy, setting up key goals and ensuring Spain’s control of the match. His ability to dictate play, maintain composure under pressure, and deliver game-changing moments made 2012 another standout year in his illustrious career, reinforcing his reputation as one of the most elegant midfielders of his generation.

In 2012, Cristiano Ronaldo delivered a year of sheer dominance, proving why he was one of the most unstoppable forces in world football. Leading Real Madrid, he played a crucial role in their La Liga-winning campaign, showcasing his explosive speed, technical mastery, and relentless drive. His performances extended to the Champions League, where he delivered crucial goals and assists, reinforcing his status as a game-changer. On the international stage, Ronaldo was instrumental in Portugal’s Euro 2012 run, leading his team to the semifinals with decisive performances, including a standout display against the Czech Republic. His ability to rise in high-pressure moments, combined with his leadership and consistency, made 2012 a landmark year in his legendary career.

In 2012, Lionel Messi delivered a year of absolute footballing brilliance, setting records that may never be broken. His performances were nothing short of extraordinary, proving why he was the most unstoppable force in world football. Leading Barcelona, he shattered the record for most goals in a calendar year, scoring an astonishing 91 goals across all competitions. His ability to dictate play, score from impossible angles, and create chances made him a nightmare for defenders.

In La Liga, Messi was untouchable, finishing with 50 league goals, a feat that showcased his consistency and dominance. His performances extended to the Champions League, where he delivered crucial goals and assists, reinforcing his status as a game-changer. On the international stage, he continued his brilliance with Argentina, contributing decisive goals in World Cup qualifiers.

What made 2012 the greatest individual year of the 21st century was not just the sheer number of goals, but the way Messi played—his dribbling, vision, and ability to control matches with effortless genius. His combination of technical mastery, intelligence, and leadership made 2012 a landmark year in football history, reinforcing his reputation as one of the greatest players of all time.