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#3 Didier Deschamps (1998 FIFA World Cup winner and current France manager)
France manager Didier Deschamps has tipped his compatriot Karim Benzema to win this year's Ballon d'Or award.
Benzema has sizzled under the 1998 FIFA World Cup winner, who managed Les Bleus in their victorious campaign in the competition in 2018. Returning to the international fold after six years, the Real Madrid man has scored goals galore, perhaps making up for lost time.
“Yes, clearly,” Deschamps said in a press conference when asked about Benzema's chances of winning the Ballon d'Or award this year.
It remains to be seen if that turns out to be the case on Monday, November 29, when the 2021 Ballon d'Or winner will be announced.
#2 Ronaldo Nazario (two-time Ballon d'Or winner)
Ronaldo Nazario is a two-time Ballon d'Or winner. His first win in 1997 made him the youngest player to win the prestigious accolade; Ronaldo was only 21 at the time.
Considered one of the finest and most skilful strikers to have graced the game, Ronaldo has tipped Karim Benzema to win the 2021 Ballon d'Or award. The Brazilian said in this regard:
“Without a doubt, my candidate for the Ballon d'Or is Benzema. The best forward in the world, (an) incredibly high level for 10 years and a champion above all. Worthy of the award, don't you think?”
Benzema is certainly a strong contender for the Ballon d'Or award this year. But it would be a surprise if he wins it ahead of the likes of Messi, Lewandowski and Jorginho, who all won major titles this year.
#1 Zinedine Zidane (1998 Ballon d'Or winner)
Zinedine Zidane is one of the most storied names in the history of the sport. After a hugely successful career for club and country, the Frenchman found success on the other side of the touchline too.
The 1998 Ballon d'Or winner won every major title on offer before becoming the first manager in history to win three consecutive Champions League titles. Zidane, who is currently on a sabbatical from management, recently spoke about Karim Benzema's 2021 Ballon d'Or credentials.
The translation of his remarks, as quoted by Telefoot, reads:
“Benzema deserves to win this Ballon d'Or. He is an incredible player, I had the great honor of coaching him. He can do everything on the pitch. He is on top, and I hope that he could be awarded this Ballon d'Or.”
However, it remains to be seen if voters will think likewise when they decide the 2021 Ballon d'Or winner on Monday.
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