My TOP 10 Ballon d'Or 2005

This is my ranking, my opinion on the Ballon d'Or of the year 2005. 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 2005, Samuel Eto'o delivered a year of exceptional brilliance, proving why he was one of the most lethal strikers in world football. Playing for Barcelona, he was instrumental in their La Liga triumph, finishing the season as the league’s top scorer with 25 goals. His defining moments came in the Champions League, where he scored crucial goals, including a sublime lob against Panathinaikos, showcasing his composure and skill on the biggest stage. Eto'o’s combination of pace, power, and clinical finishing made him a nightmare for defenders, and his performances throughout the year solidified his reputation as one of the finest forwards of his generation.

In 2005, Kaká delivered a year of exceptional brilliance, proving why he was one of the most elegant and effective playmakers in world football. Playing for AC Milan, he was instrumental in their Serie A and Champions League campaigns, dazzling with his creativity, vision, and ability to dictate the tempo of games. His defining moments came in the Champions League, where his performances against top European clubs highlighted his ability to rise in high-pressure matches. Kaká’s combination of technical mastery, composure, and intelligence made him the heartbeat of Milan’s midfield, consistently delivering match-winning contributions. 2005 was a year where Kaká’s talent and consistency solidified his reputation as one of the best players in the world, leaving fans captivated by his genius.

In 2005, Adriano was an unstoppable force, earning his nickname "The Emperor" with performances that showcased his raw power, skill, and goal-scoring prowess. Playing for Inter Milan, he was instrumental in their Serie A and Coppa Italia triumphs, finishing the year as one of the most prolific strikers in the world. His defining moments came in the Champions League, where his physicality and thunderous left foot made him a nightmare for defenders. Adriano’s ability to combine brute strength with technical finesse set him apart, as he scored stunning goals and dominated matches with his presence. 2005 was a year where Adriano’s talent and sheer force made him one of the most feared players in football, leaving fans in awe of his beast-like performances.

In 2005, Paolo Maldini continued to exemplify his incredible longevity and consistency, proving why he was one of the greatest defenders in football history. Playing for AC Milan, he was a cornerstone of their defense, combining intelligence, composure, and leadership to guide the team through challenging matches. Despite being in the later stages of his career, Maldini’s ability to read the game, make crucial interceptions, and inspire his teammates remained unparalleled. His dedication to fitness and recovery allowed him to maintain his high level of performance, earning admiration from fans and players alike. 2005 was yet another year where Maldini’s enduring brilliance and commitment to excellence solidified his legacy as a true icon of the sport.

In 2005, Andriy Shevchenko delivered a year of clinical brilliance, cementing his status as one of the most lethal strikers in football history. Playing for AC Milan, he was instrumental in their Serie A and Champions League campaigns, showcasing his incredible finishing ability, movement off the ball, and composure in front of goal. His defining moments came in crucial matches, where his knack for scoring decisive goals made him a nightmare for defenders. Shevchenko’s performances were a perfect blend of power and precision, as he consistently delivered for Milan on the biggest stages. 2005 was a year where Shevchenko’s talent and consistency solidified his legacy as one of the greatest forwards of his generation.

In 2005, Petr Čech delivered a year of goalkeeping brilliance, proving why he was one of the finest shot-stoppers in football history. Playing for Chelsea, he set a Premier League record with an incredible 24 clean sheets in a single season, a feat unmatched to this day. His defining moments came in crucial matches, where his composure, reflexes, and ability to organize the defense were pivotal in Chelsea’s title-winning campaign. Čech’s performances were a testament to his consistency and skill, as he became the backbone of a team that conceded only 15 goals throughout the league season. 2005 was a year where Čech’s brilliance not only earned him individual accolades but also solidified his legacy as one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time.

In 2005, Frank Lampard delivered a year of remarkable consistency and brilliance, proving why he was one of the best midfielders in the world. Playing for Chelsea, he was instrumental in their Premier League title win, contributing with 16 goals and 9 assists in the league, an extraordinary feat for a midfielder. His defining moments came in crucial matches, where his ability to score from long range, deliver precise passes, and control the tempo of games made him indispensable for the team. Lampard’s work ethic, intelligence, and knack for arriving in the box at the perfect moment set him apart, as he consistently delivered match-winning performances. 2005 was a year where Lampard’s talent and leadership solidified his legacy as one of the greatest players in Premier League history.

In 2005, Steven Gerrard delivered a year of heroic performances, cementing his status as one of the greatest midfielders in football history. Leading Liverpool, he was the driving force behind their unforgettable Champions League triumph, famously known as the "Miracle of Istanbul." In the final against AC Milan, Gerrard inspired one of the greatest comebacks in football, scoring a crucial header to spark Liverpool’s revival from a 3-0 deficit. His energy, leadership, and ability to rise in the biggest moments were unmatched, as he played a pivotal role in dragging his team to victory. Beyond the Champions League, Gerrard’s consistency in the Premier League and his knack for scoring spectacular goals made 2005 a defining year in his illustrious career.

In 2005, Thierry Henry delivered a year of footballing brilliance, cementing his status as one of the greatest players in the world. Despite battling injuries, he remained the driving force behind Arsenal, showcasing his exceptional skill, pace, and clinical finishing. His defining moments came in the Premier League, where he scored 25 goals and provided 7 assists, earning the Golden Boot for his remarkable goal-scoring record. Henry’s performances were a perfect blend of artistry and efficiency, as he carried Arsenal to a second-place finish in the league and consistently delivered in high-pressure situations. Injuries may have tested him, but they couldn’t dim the brilliance of his 2005 season.

In 2005, Ronaldinho was at the absolute peak of his powers, delivering a year of footballing magic that cemented his status as the best player in the world. Leading Barcelona, he was the creative heartbeat of the team, orchestrating their La Liga triumph with his extraordinary vision, dazzling dribbling, and audacious flair. His defining moment came in the iconic El Clásico against Real Madrid, where he scored two breathtaking goals at the Santiago Bernabéu, earning a standing ovation from the opposing fans—a rare and unforgettable tribute that underscored his genius. Ronaldinho’s ability to turn football into art, combined with his infectious joy for the game, made him a global icon and a player who transcended the sport.

Beyond his domestic success, Ronaldinho’s influence extended to the international stage, where he continued to shine for Brazil, showcasing his unique blend of creativity and unpredictability. Whether it was his mesmerizing elastico, his pinpoint free kicks, or his no-look passes, Ronaldinho consistently delivered moments of brilliance that left fans and opponents in awe. 2005 was a year where his artistry and joy for football captivated the world, solidifying his legacy as one of the most beloved and magical players in the history of the game.