My TOP 10 Ballon d'Or 2011

This is my ranking, my opinion on the Ballon d'Or of the year 2011. 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 2011, Eden Hazard delivered a year of sheer brilliance, proving why he was one of the most electrifying talents in world football. Leading Lille, he played a pivotal role in their historic Ligue 1 and Coupe de France double, cementing his status as one of the best young players in Europe. His ability to glide past defenders, create chances, and score decisive goals made him the heartbeat of Lille’s attack. His performances earned him the Ligue 1 Player of the Year award, highlighting his dominance in French football. His combination of flair, vision, and technical mastery made 2011 a landmark year in his career, reinforcing his reputation as one of the most dynamic players of his generation.

In 2011, Radamel Falcao dominated European football, proving why he was one of the most clinical strikers in the world. Leading FC Porto, he spearheaded their historic treble, winning the Primeira Liga, Taça de Portugal, and Europa League with an unstoppable goal-scoring instinct. His most legendary moment came in the Europa League, where he set a record by scoring 17 goals in a single campaign, including a remarkable four-goal performance against Villarreal in the semifinals and the winning strike in the final against Braga. His ability to thrive under pressure, coupled with his technical brilliance and composed finishing, made 2011 a career-defining year, reinforcing his reputation as the ultimate Europa League king.

In 2011, 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 2011 was a standout year in his career, reinforcing his reputation as one of the most elegant and influential midfielders of his generation.

In 2011, Neymar burst onto the global stage, proving why he was one of the most electrifying young talents in football. Leading Santos, he dazzled with his breathtaking dribbling, creativity, and ability to single-handedly change games. His performances in the Copa Libertadores were legendary, where he played a crucial role in Santos’ triumph, scoring decisive goals and showcasing his flair. His defining moment came in the FIFA Club World Cup final against Barcelona, where, despite Santos’ defeat, Neymar’s skill and confidence against one of the greatest teams of all time made the world take notice. His combination of technique, vision, and audacity made 2011 the year Neymar announced himself to the footballing world as a future superstar.

In 2011, 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 Copa del Rey triumph, making decisive saves in the final against Barcelona, including a stunning stop to deny Andrés Iniesta. His performances in La Liga were equally impressive, where he provided leadership and crucial saves throughout the season. His ability to remain calm under pressure, organize his defense, and deliver match-winning performances made 2011 a standout year in his illustrious career, reinforcing his reputation as one of the greatest goalkeepers of his generation.

In 2011, Wayne Rooney delivered a year of brilliance, proving why he was one of the most complete forwards in world football. Leading Manchester United, he played a crucial role in their Premier League-winning campaign, combining his goal-scoring ability with creativity and leadership. His defining moment came in the Manchester Derby, where he scored one of the most iconic goals in Premier League history—a breathtaking bicycle kick against Manchester City that sealed a crucial victory. His ability to rise in high-pressure moments, dictate play, and deliver match-winning performances made 2011 a standout year in his career, reinforcing his reputation as one of the greatest English forwards of his generation.

In 2011, Andrés Iniesta 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 La Liga and Champions League-winning campaign, dictating the tempo with his precise passing, vision, and ability to control games. His performances extended to the UEFA Super Cup, where he helped Barcelona secure victory against FC Porto. His ability to dictate play, maintain composure under pressure, and deliver game-changing moments made 2011 another standout year in his illustrious career, reinforcing his reputation as one of the most elegant midfielders of his generation.

In 2011, 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 La Liga and Champions League-winning campaign, dictating the tempo with his precise passing, vision, and ability to control games. His defining moment came in the Champions League final against Manchester United, where he orchestrated Barcelona’s dominance, delivering a midfield masterclass that left opponents chasing shadows. His ability to dictate play, maintain composure under pressure, and deliver game-changing moments made 2011 another standout year in his illustrious career, reinforcing his reputation as one of the most elegant midfielders of his generation.

In 2011, 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 Copa del Rey triumph, scoring the winning goal in the final against Barcelona with a towering header. His performances in La Liga were relentless, finishing the season with 40 league goals, showcasing his explosive speed, technical mastery, and relentless drive. On the international stage, Ronaldo was instrumental in Portugal’s Euro 2012 qualification, delivering decisive performances in the playoffs against Bosnia. His ability to rise in high-pressure moments, combined with his leadership and consistency, made 2011 a landmark year in his legendary career.

In 2011, Lionel Messi delivered a year of absolute footballing brilliance, proving why he was the most unstoppable force in world football. Leading Barcelona, he played a crucial role in their La Liga and Champions League-winning campaign, dazzling with his dribbling, vision, and goal-scoring ability. His defining moment came in the Champions League final against Manchester United, where he scored a crucial goal and orchestrated Barcelona’s dominance, earning the Man of the Match award. Messi finished the year with an astonishing 59 goals and 38 assists, showcasing his unmatched consistency and influence on the pitch. His ability to dictate play, create chances, and produce moments of magic made 2011 a career-defining year, reinforcing his reputation as the best player in the world at the time.

Beyond his goal-scoring exploits, Messi’s overall impact on Barcelona’s style of play was unparalleled. His ability to seamlessly link up with Xavi and Iniesta in midfield created a level of fluidity that made Barcelona nearly impossible to stop. His dribbling runs, often starting from deep positions, left defenders helpless, and his ability to find space in tight areas made him a constant threat. His performances in La Liga were relentless, finishing the season with 31 league goals, helping Barcelona secure another domestic title.

Messi’s influence extended beyond club football, as he continued to shine for Argentina, delivering decisive performances in international friendlies and World Cup qualifiers. His ability to adapt to different tactical setups while maintaining his brilliance made him the most complete player in the world. 2011 was the year Messi reached new heights, setting the standard for individual excellence in football.