My TOP 10 Ballon d'Or 2006

This is my ranking, my opinion on the Ballon d'Or of the year 2006. 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 2006, Deco demonstrated his brilliance as one of the most creative and versatile midfielders in world football. Playing for Barcelona, he was a key figure in their midfield, combining technical skill, vision, and work rate to dictate the tempo of games. His ability to link defense and attack, deliver precise passes, and contribute with crucial goals made him indispensable for the team. On the international stage, Deco continued to shine for Portugal, showcasing his flair and intelligence in key matches. 2006 was a year where Deco’s consistency and ability to influence games at the highest level solidified his reputation as one of the finest playmakers of his generation.

In 2006, Cesc Fàbregas showcased his brilliance as one of the greatest young talents football has ever seen. At just 19 years old, he was already a key figure in Arsenal’s midfield, displaying maturity and composure beyond his years. His vision, passing accuracy, and ability to control games made him the heartbeat of Arsenal’s attack, earning him widespread recognition as one of the most promising players in the Premier League. Fàbregas’s performances in 2006 were a testament to his extraordinary talent, as he consistently delivered in high-pressure matches and proved himself as a player destined for greatness.

In 2006, Kaká demonstrated his brilliance as one of the world’s premier playmakers, leading AC Milan with unmatched creativity and technical mastery. Whether orchestrating their midfield in Serie A or delivering pivotal performances in the Champions League, Kaká showcased his ability to dictate games with vision, elegance, and composure. Beyond his club achievements, he shone on the international stage for Brazil, combining flair, precision, and intelligence to leave defenders chasing shadows. It was a year where Kaká’s consistency and remarkable ability to create magic from nothing solidified his status as one of football’s greatest talents, leaving fans captivated by his genius.

In 2006, Zinedine Zidane carried France with his brilliance and leadership, proving why he was one of the greatest players of all time. His performances in the World Cup were nothing short of extraordinary, as he guided France to the final with his vision, composure, and ability to dictate games. Zidane’s defining moments came in the knockout stages, where he delivered masterful displays against Spain, Brazil, and Portugal, scoring crucial goals and orchestrating France’s attack with unmatched elegance. However, his campaign ended in controversy during the final against Italy, where he was sent off for headbutting Marco Materazzi in extra time, a moment that overshadowed his otherwise remarkable tournament. Despite his brilliance, Zidane’s red card and limited appearances in 2006 prevent him from ranking higher in my list, but his impact and legacy remain undeniable.

In 2006, Didier Drogba showcased his immense talent and leadership, proving why he was one of the most influential forwards in world football. Leading Chelsea, he played a crucial role in their campaign, combining his physicality, technical skill, and ability to deliver in key moments. On the international stage, Drogba was the driving force for Ivory Coast, scoring a memorable goal against Argentina in the World Cup, a testament to his knack for rising to the occasion. While his season was marked by moments of brilliance, his impact was somewhat limited by injuries and fewer appearances compared to his peak years. Nevertheless, 2006 was a year where Drogba’s determination and ability to inspire his teams solidified his reputation as a true leader and one of the most feared strikers of his era.

In 2006, Fabio Cannavaro reached the pinnacle of his career, captaining Italy to a historic World Cup victory and earning the Ballon d’Or for his exceptional performances. His defensive displays throughout the tournament were nothing short of legendary, as he led Italy with composure, intelligence, and impeccable timing, conceding only two goals in the entire competition—none from open play. However, after his move to Real Madrid later that year, Cannavaro struggled to replicate his World Cup form. While he brought experience and leadership to Madrid’s defense, his performances were often inconsistent, and he faced criticism for failing to meet the high expectations set by his Ballon d’Or-winning year. For many, 2006 was a tale of two halves for Cannavaro: a year of unparalleled success on the international stage, but a somewhat underwhelming start to his club career in Spain.

In 2006, Andrea Pirlo delivered a masterclass in midfield artistry, proving why he was one of the most intelligent and elegant players in world football. Leading Italy, he was instrumental in their World Cup triumph, dictating play with his trademark vision, composure, and pinpoint passing. His defining moment came in the semifinal against Germany, where he provided a stunning assist to Fabio Grosso for the winning goal, showcasing his ability to rise in the biggest moments. Pirlo’s performances throughout the tournament were a testament to his genius, as he controlled games with effortless grace and guided Italy to their fourth World Cup title. While his club season with AC Milan was solid, it was his brilliance on the international stage that made 2006 a year to remember for Pirlo, cementing his legacy as one of football’s all-time greats.

In 2006, Gianluigi Buffon delivered a year of goalkeeping excellence, proving why he was one of the greatest shot-stoppers in football history. Leading Italy, he was instrumental in their World Cup triumph, making crucial saves throughout the tournament and conceding only two goals, none from open play. His defining moments came in the semifinal against Germany, where he made a stunning save against Lukas Podolski, and in the final against France, where his composure and leadership were pivotal in Italy’s victory. Buffon’s performances in 2006 were a testament to his incredible reflexes, positioning, and ability to rise in the biggest moments, cementing his legacy as one of the finest goalkeepers the game has ever seen.

In 2006, Ronaldinho was at the peak of his powers, mesmerizing the footballing world with his unmatched flair and creativity. Playing for Barcelona, he was the heartbeat of their attack, dazzling fans and opponents alike with his incredible dribbling, no-look passes, and audacious tricks. His ability to turn games on their head with moments of pure magic made him a joy to watch. Whether it was his iconic elastico, his pinpoint free kicks, or his infectious smile that lit up the pitch, Ronaldinho embodied the beauty of football. 2006 was a year where his artistry and joy for the game left an indelible mark, reminding everyone why he was one of the most beloved players in the history of the sport.

In 2006, Thierry Henry delivered a year of footballing excellence, cementing his status as one of the greatest players of his generation. Leading Arsenal, he was the focal point of their attack, combining breathtaking skill, pace, and clinical finishing to dominate matches. His defining moment came in the Champions League Round of 16 against Real Madrid, where he scored an iconic solo goal at the Santiago Bernabéu, gliding past multiple defenders before calmly slotting the ball past Iker Casillas. This goal not only secured Arsenal’s victory but also highlighted Henry’s ability to shine on the grandest stage.

Throughout the year, Henry’s consistency, creativity, and leadership were unmatched, as he carried Arsenal to their first-ever Champions League final. His performances were a perfect blend of artistry and efficiency, making him a joy to watch and a nightmare for defenders. For me, 2006 stands out as the year where Henry’s brilliance reached its peak, and it’s easy to see why i regard him as the best in the world during that time.