Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has insisted he is not obsessed with the FIFA Ballon d'Or – is this his way of acknowledging that Lionel Messi might reclaim the award?
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The Portuguese has won the award for the past two seasons, but his longstanding rival is considered the favourite for this year's accolade.
The Argentine, who has already claimed four Ballon d'Ors, was outstanding during FC Barcelona's treble-winning campaign, and has been involved in 73 goals for club and country in 2015 – four more than Ronaldo.
"I'm not obsessed by the Ballon d'Or. I'm happy for my season, after the problems I had at the start," the Los Blancos talisman said, as quoted by AS.
"Now I've got more confidence and the team are helping me a lot."
Ronaldo also commented on his new Champions League group stage record, and revealed how he deals with criticism.
"I don't look for records, the records look for me," the 30-year-old added.
"It's my seventh season here, and I know how things work around here.
"I can spend all day thinking about what others think of me. You need to do your job and have a clear conscience."
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Ronaldo, Messi and Neymar are the three finalists for the 2015 FIFA Ballon d'Or, the winner of which will be announced on 11 January.
Who do you think will be named World Player of the Year? Have your say in the comments section below.
