My TOP 10 Ballon d'Or 2015

This is my ranking, my opinion on the Ballon d'Or of the year 2015. 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 2015, Alexis Sánchez delivered a year of extraordinary performances that showcased his relentless energy, technical brilliance, and ability to rise to the occasion. As a key player for Arsenal, he was instrumental in their FA Cup triumph, dazzling fans with his explosive dribbles, precise finishing, and tireless work rate. His influence extended to the international stage, where he led Chile to their historic Copa América victory, securing the nation’s first-ever continental title. Sánchez’s defining moment came in the final against Argentina, where he calmly converted the winning penalty, etching his name into Chilean football history. His ability to perform under pressure, combined with his unwavering determination, made 2015 a landmark year that reinforced his reputation as one of the most dynamic and influential players in world football.

In 2015, Thomas Müller showcased his trademark intelligence, versatility, and goal-scoring prowess, solidifying his status as one of the most influential players in world football. As a key figure for Bayern Munich, he played a pivotal role in their Bundesliga triumph, contributing with crucial goals and assists while demonstrating his uncanny ability to find space and dictate play. His impact extended to the international stage, where he was a driving force for Germany, continuing to be a leader following their 2014 World Cup victory. Müller's ability to deliver in high-pressure moments, combined with his tactical awareness and relentless work ethic, made 2015 another defining year in his illustrious career.

In 2015, Ivan Rakitić demonstrated his intelligence, composure, and tactical versatility, seamlessly stepping into the role left by Xavi Hernández at FC Barcelona. As a key figure in Luis Enrique’s midfield, he played a crucial role in Barcelona’s historic treble, balancing defensive duties with creative playmaking. His ability to dictate the tempo, deliver precise passes, and contribute defensively made him an indispensable part of the team. Rakitić’s defining moment came in the Champions League final against Juventus, where he scored the opening goal, setting the tone for Barcelona’s 3-1 victory. His partnership with Sergio Busquets and Andrés Iniesta ensured that Barcelona’s midfield remained dominant, even in Xavi’s absence. His seamless transition into the squad reinforced his reputation as one of the most intelligent and adaptable midfielders in world football.

In 2015, Zlatan Ibrahimović continued to dominate European football, proving once again that he was one of the most influential and unstoppable forwards of his generation. Leading Paris Saint-Germain, he played a crucial role in their domestic treble, securing the Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and Coupe de la Ligue titles with his signature blend of power, technique, and audacity. Despite injuries limiting his playing time in the early months of the year, Ibrahimović finished 2015 with an astonishing 46 goals in all competitions, reaffirming his status as PSG’s undisputed leader. His influence extended beyond club football, as he continued to carry Sweden, delivering crucial performances in the Euro 2016 qualifiers, including a spectacular display against Denmark in the playoff. His combination of charisma, skill, and confidence made 2015 another defining year in his illustrious career, with his signature ability to rise in the most decisive moments.

In 2015, Eden Hazard showcased his dazzling dribbling, vision, and ability to dictate games, cementing his status as one of the most electrifying players in world football. As the heartbeat of Chelsea, he played a pivotal role in their Premier League triumph, delivering mesmerizing performances that earned him the PFA Player of the Year award. His ability to glide past defenders, create chances, and score crucial goals made him the standout performer in England. Hazard’s brilliance extended to the international stage, where he led Belgium with his creativity and leadership. His combination of flair, intelligence, and consistency made 2015 a defining year in his career, reinforcing his reputation as one of the most gifted attackers of his generation.

In 2015, Manuel Neuer continued to redefine the role of a modern goalkeeper, combining world-class shot-stopping with his exceptional ability to play as a sweeper-keeper. As the backbone of Bayern Munich, he was instrumental in their Bundesliga triumph, showcasing his leadership, composure, and unmatched reflexes. His performances in the Champions League further solidified his reputation, as he delivered crucial saves and commanded his defense with authority. Neuer’s ability to anticipate danger, distribute the ball with precision, and dominate his penalty area made 2015 another defining year in his illustrious career, reinforcing his status as one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time.

In 2015, Luis Suárez delivered a year of sheer brilliance, showcasing his lethal finishing, intelligent movement, and ability to shine in the biggest moments. As a key figure in Barcelona’s historic treble, he formed a devastating attacking trio with Messi and Neymar, terrorizing defenses across Europe. His defining moment came in the Champions League final, where he scored a crucial goal against Juventus, helping Barcelona secure their fifth European title. Suárez finished the year with 48 goals, proving himself as one of the most complete strikers in world football. His relentless drive, technical mastery, and winning mentality made 2015 a landmark year in his illustrious career.

In 2015, Cristiano Ronaldo delivered a year of relentless brilliance, showcasing his elite goal-scoring ability, physical dominance, and unwavering determination. As the talisman of Real Madrid, he finished the year with an astonishing 57 goals in 57 matches, making him the top scorer of the calendar year. His performances in La Liga and the Champions League reinforced his reputation as one of the most consistent and lethal forwards in football history. Despite missing out on major team trophies, Ronaldo’s individual excellence was undeniable, as he continued to break records and set new standards for attacking play. His combination of power, precision, and leadership made 2015 another defining year in his legendary career.

In 2015, Neymar dazzled the football world with his flair, creativity, and decisive performances, cementing his status as one of the most electrifying players of his generation. As a key figure in Barcelona’s historic treble, he played a crucial role in their La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Champions League triumphs, finishing as the joint top scorer in the Champions League with 10 goals. His defining moment came in the Champions League final, where he sealed Barcelona’s victory against Juventus with a last-minute goal. Neymar’s ability to rise in high-pressure moments, combined with his dazzling dribbles and clinical finishing, made 2015 a landmark year that reinforced his reputation as one of the most dynamic and influential players in world football.

In 2015, Lionel Messi delivered a year of absolute brilliance, proving to me why he was the best player in the world. His ability to dominate matches with his dribbling, vision, and goal-scoring made him the heartbeat of Barcelona’s historic treble. From his mesmerizing solo goal against Athletic Bilbao in the Copa del Rey final to his masterclass against Bayern Munich in the Champions League semifinals, Messi was simply unstoppable.

For me, his ability to dictate the tempo, create magic out of nothing, and rise in the biggest moments set him apart from everyone else. He finished the year with 52 goals and 30 assists, securing the Ballon d’Or and reinforcing his status as the most complete footballer of his generation.

Beyond his club success, Messi also had an amazing Copa América, leading Argentina to the final with his creativity, leadership, and playmaking. Though Argentina fell short against Chile, Messi’s performances throughout the tournament showcased his ability to carry his team on the international stage.