My TOP 10 Ballon d'Or 1990

This is my ranking, my opinion on the Ballon d'Or of the year 1990. 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 1990, Paul Gascoigne delivered a year that defined his career, showcasing his dazzling dribbling, creativity, and ability to thrive under pressure. As an attacking midfielder, he combined vision, flair, and an instinctive ability to unlock defenses, making him an indispensable figure for Tottenham Hotspur and the England national team. His defining moment came in the 1990 FIFA World Cup, where he was the heartbeat of England’s run to the semi-finals. His performances were electrifying, as he dictated play, provided crucial assists, and displayed an unmatched ability to carry the ball forward with confidence. Gascoigne’s most iconic moment came in the semi-final against West Germany, where he received a yellow card that would have ruled him out of the final had England progressed. Overcome with emotion, he famously burst into tears, an image that became one of the most enduring moments in World Cup history. His passion and brilliance on the pitch captivated fans, sparking “Gazzamania” across England. Though England fell short in the semi-final, Gascoigne’s performances earned him global recognition, cementing his status as one of the most naturally gifted English footballers of his generation.

In 1990, Enzo Scifo delivered a year that reinforced his reputation as one of Belgium’s finest playmakers, showcasing his technical brilliance, vision, and ability to dictate the tempo of a match. As an attacking midfielder, he combined creativity, precision, and an instinctive ability to unlock defenses, making him an indispensable figure for AJ Auxerre and the Belgian national team. His performances in Ligue 1 were instrumental in Auxerre’s strong campaign, as he played a key role in orchestrating attacks and providing decisive contributions. On the international stage, Scifo was a standout performer for Belgium in the 1990 FIFA World Cup, where his ability to control the midfield and deliver crucial passes was vital in Belgium’s run to the Round of 16. His composure and intelligence on the ball made him one of the most admired midfielders of the tournament. His achievements in 1990 set the foundation for his continued success, leading to his move to Torino, where he would further establish himself as a key figure in European football. His combination of technical mastery, tactical intelligence, and leadership ensured his legacy as one of Belgium’s greatest footballers.

In 1990, Jean-Pierre Papin delivered a phenomenal year, cementing his status as one of the most clinical and dynamic strikers in world football. As the attacking talisman of Olympique de Marseille, he combined precision, agility, and an instinctive ability to score from any angle, making him an indispensable figure in the club’s dominance. His performances in Ligue 1 were nothing short of spectacular, as he led Marseille to their third consecutive league title, finishing as the league’s top scorer for the fourth straight season. His ability to execute stunning volleys—dubbed “Papinades”—became his trademark, leaving defenders and goalkeepers helpless. Papin’s influence extended beyond domestic success, as he guided Marseille to the 1990 European Cup semi-finals, where they were controversially eliminated by Benfica. Despite the disappointment, his performances throughout the tournament reinforced his reputation as one of the most feared strikers in Europe.

In 1990, Hugo Sánchez delivered a phenomenal year, cementing his status as one of the most prolific goal-scorers in football history. As the attacking talisman of Real Madrid, he combined precision, agility, and an instinctive ability to score from any angle, making him an indispensable figure in the club’s dominance. His performances in La Liga were nothing short of spectacular, as he led Madrid to the league title, finishing as the top scorer with an incredible 38 goals—a tally that remained unmatched for years. Sánchez’s ability to execute stunning volleys and acrobatic finishes made him one of the most feared strikers in Europe. His achievements in 1990 set the stage for his continued brilliance, reinforcing his legacy as the greatest Mexican footballer of all time.

In 1990, Frank Rijkaard delivered a commanding year, showcasing his tactical intelligence, defensive mastery, and ability to contribute offensively. As a versatile midfielder and defender, he combined composure, precision, and leadership, making him an indispensable figure for AC Milan and the Dutch national team. Rijkaard’s impact was most evident in Milan’s European dominance, as he played a crucial role in securing the 1989–90 European Cup, helping the club defend their title with a victory over Benfica in the final. His ability to dictate play from deep, break up opposition attacks, and contribute with timely goals made him one of the most complete players of his generation. On the international stage, Rijkaard was a key figure for the Netherlands in the 1990 FIFA World Cup, where his presence in midfield provided stability and control. Though the Dutch team fell short of expectations, his performances reinforced his reputation as a world-class player, capable of excelling in both defensive and attacking roles.

In 1990, Roberto Baggio delivered a breakthrough year, showcasing his technical brilliance, creativity, and ability to rise to the occasion in crucial moments. As an attacking midfielder and forward, he combined vision, agility, and an instinctive ability to unlock defenses, making him an indispensable figure for AC Fiorentina and the Italian national team. His performances in Serie A were mesmerizing, as he led Fiorentina’s attack with his dazzling dribbling and precise finishing, earning him a high-profile move to Juventus in the summer—a transfer that sparked riots among Fiorentina fans due to their deep attachment to him. On the international stage, Baggio was a standout performer for Italy in the 1990 FIFA World Cup, where his ability to dictate play and deliver decisive moments was vital in Italy’s run to the semi-finals. His most iconic moment came in the group stage against Czechoslovakia, where he scored one of the greatest goals in World Cup history—a stunning solo effort that showcased his balance, composure, and finishing ability. 

In 1990, Andreas Brehme delivered a defining year, showcasing his versatility, tactical intelligence, and ability to rise to the occasion in crucial moments. As a left-back and midfielder, he combined precision, composure, and leadership, making him an indispensable figure for Inter Milan and the German national team. His most iconic moment came in the 1990 FIFA World Cup Final, where he scored the winning goal against Argentina with an 85th-minute penalty, securing Germany’s third World Cup title2. His ability to play with both feet made him a unique asset, as he often took penalties with his right foot and free kicks with his left. Beyond his international triumph, Brehme was a key figure in Inter Milan’s UEFA Cup victory, reinforcing his reputation as one of the most complete players of his generation. His achievements in 1990 solidified his legacy as a player who thrived under pressure, setting the stage for his continued success at both club and international levels.

In 1990, Franco Baresi delivered a masterful year, showcasing his defensive brilliance, leadership, and ability to dictate play from the back. As a sweeper and center-back, he combined tactical intelligence, composure, and an unmatched ability to read the game, making him an indispensable figure for AC Milan and the Italian national team. His impact was most evident in Milan’s European dominance, as he played a crucial role in securing the 1989–90 European Cup, helping the club defend their title with a victory over Benfica in the final. His ability to organize the defense, break up opposition attacks, and initiate counterplays made him one of the most complete defenders of his generation. On the international stage, Baresi was a key figure for Italy in the 1990 FIFA World Cup, where his commanding presence in defense helped the team reach the semi-finals.  His performances earned him a place in the World Cup All-Star Team, reinforcing his reputation as one of the finest defenders in football history. His achievements in 1990 solidified his legacy as a true leader and a defensive maestro, setting the stage for his continued excellence at both club and international levels.

In 1990, Diego Maradona delivered a dramatic year, showcasing his leadership, technical brilliance, and ability to inspire his team in the toughest moments. As the captain of Argentina, he led his nation to the FIFA World Cup Final, despite battling injuries and relentless defensive pressure. His most iconic moment came in the semi-final against Italy, where he played in Naples—his adopted home—leading Argentina to victory in a tense penalty shootout. His controversial plea for Neapolitans to support Argentina over Italy sparked outrage across the country, marking one of the most politically charged moments in World Cup history. Though Argentina fell short in the final against West Germany, Maradona’s influence remained undeniable. His performances, despite not being as dazzling as in 1986, proved his ability to carry a team through sheer determination and tactical intelligence. At club level, he continued to shine for Napoli, securing his second Serie A title and reinforcing his status as one of the greatest players of all time.

In 1990, Lothar Matthäus was simply the most complete footballer in the world. His ability to dominate the midfield, dictate the tempo of a match, and contribute both defensively and offensively made him unmatched in his era. Whether it was his tactical intelligence, leadership, or sheer determination, Matthäus embodied everything a world-class player should be. His performances for Inter Milan were nothing short of extraordinary, leading the club to Serie A dominance and securing the UEFA Cup title. His presence in midfield was commanding—he could break up opposition attacks, drive forward with precision, and unleash powerful strikes from distance. Beyond his club success, Matthäus was the heartbeat of the German national team, leading them to World Cup glory as captain. His ability to control the midfield, dictate play, and deliver in crucial moments made him the driving force behind Germany’s triumph. His dominance in 1990 was recognized globally, as he was awarded the Ballon d’Or, cementing his status as the best player in the world. No other player combined versatility, intelligence, and consistency like he did. While others had flashes of brilliance, Matthäus was relentless, delivering world-class performances week in and week out. His achievements in 1990 solidified his legacy as one of the greatest midfielders of all time, proving that he was not just a great player—but the best in the world that year.