SPAIN COACH Vicente del Bosque reckons Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo could pip some of his side’s stars to the Ballon d’Or this January.
Italy fell to a 4-0 loss to Spain in the Euro 2012 final this year, but the 33-year-old remains widely regarded as one of the best in his position after some stellar performances at the tournament.
Del Bosque has voiced his admiration of the former AC Milan man, but added that he hopes one of his own compatriots picks up the award – on which he places ‘little’ value.
“Pirlo, could win (the Ballon d’Or). He is among the candidates,” the 61-year old said. ”He is a complete player, able to build the game and finish it.
“Even though I think very little about this award, I hope it goes to a Spaniard. (Andres) Iniesta? He’s not the only one.
“The competition is strong, with (Cristiano) Ronaldo, (Lionel) Messi and (Radamel) Falcao,” he added.
