Many Portuguese people are hoping Lionel Messi beats Cristiano Ronaldo to the 2016 Ballon d'Or, according to former Portugal international Paulo Futre.
The Real Madrid superstar is expected by many to walk away with this year's Ballon d'Or crown after lifting the UEFA Champions League and the European Championship in the same season.
However, Futre has revealed that Ronaldo is not as well liked in Portugal as most think he is due to some of his behaviour in the past.
"Cristiano is Portuguese, he has done everything, is a European champion," Futre told El Larguero.
"But he has many enemies there – for the way he is. He is very direct, and creates many enemies in his own country.
"There was a time when many people used to chant 'Messi, Messi, Messi' outside the Portugal team hotel, which was shameful.
"Without a doubt, there are people in Portugal who want Messi to win the Ballon d'Or. This is something very Portuguese."
The former Atletico Madrid player also commented on who he thought deserved this year's Ballon d'Or award.
"After the season (Griezmann) had, he deserves it, without a doubt," he added.
"But then Cristiano too, I believe it will be one or the other. I believe that Messi, this year, is behind the two of them.
"Over recent years, it's depended on the moment who is the best between Messi and Cristiano."
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Ronaldo has been in fine form for Los Blancos this season, having scored 10 goals in 13 appearances so far.
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