Iniesta joins Messi and Ronaldo in Ballon d'Or top three

Barcelona and Spain midfielder Andres Iniesta has been chosen alongside Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo as one of the final three candidates for the prestigious 2012 Ballon d’Or award.

It comes as no surprise that Messi and Ronaldo have been selected, given the superlative seasons they had for their respective clubs last time around.

Messi has scored 82 goals this calendar year, and needs only three more to equal Gerd Muller’s record for most number of goals for club and country in a single year. He has also shown great form for his country, helping Argentina claim top spot in their 2014 World Cup qualification group.

Ronaldo on the other hand bagged 46 league goals last term, helping Real Madrid pip Barcelona to the La Liga title.

Iniesta tasted major success as well, winning the Euro 2012 with the Spanish national team, playing a huge part in their triumph.

Messi has won the Ballon d’Or for the last three years running, while Ronaldo won the title in 2008. Iniesta came in second in 2010 behind Messi.

Quick Links

Edited by Staff Editor