REAL MADRID STAR James Rodriguez believes Lionel Messi and Manuel Neuer will not even come close to Cristiano Ronaldo in the Fifa Ballon d’Or vote.
The Portugal international dethroned Messi as the world’s best in 2013 and his team-mate has little doubt the prolific attacker will once more bring home the prestigious individual award this year after firing Madrid to Champions League glory.
“It is an award all players dream of, but the Ballon d’Or is Cristiano’s right now,” the Colombia international told Marca.
“He’ll win it again this year because he deserves it, simple as that. He should win with 99 per cent of votes. As our coach said, there is a huge gulf between Cristiano and all the rest right now.
“His quality speaks for itself. He works very hard to be what he is: the best in the world.”
The former Monaco man then went on to praise Carlo Ancelotti and underlined the Italian’s role in Madrid’s success.
“Ancelotti is a great coach and we talk often. He has taught me a lot these past few months. I’m working hard to keep learning from him.
“We are all really happy to be working with Carlo. He asks much more of everyone defensively speaking. That’s the key to Real’s current good form.
“The only way of achieving what we do is with humility. There’s no other way. Yes, it’s a very humble group.”
