Speaking on the ‘No Tippy Tappy Football’ podcast, ex-Everton boss, Sam Allardyce, displayed his belief that the antics of last year’s Ballon d’Or will influence the result this year.

“No chance, because of what they (Real Madrid) did last year. They (UEFA) will s*** themselves because they won’t turn up again if one of them doesn’t win it, so one of them will win it. might as well have a bet on it now.”

Last year’s Ballon d’Or saw Manchester City midfielder, Rodri, walk away with the award despite runner-up and Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior winning both the Spanish league title and the Champions League.

Vinicius Junior was favourite to win an upon learning that he would not be received the award, he, his Real Madrid teammates and all Real Madrid staff opted not to travel to the Ballon d’Or Gala.

“If the award criteria do not proclaim Vinicius Jr the winner, those same criteria should proclaim Carvajal the winner. As this has not been the case, it is obvious that the UEFA Ballon d’Or does not respect Real Madrid. And Real Madrid is not where it is not respected.”

Translated, the post says “I’ll do it 10 times if I have to. They’re not prepared”.

Vinicius Junior will once again be one of the favourites to win the Ballon d’Or this year, but former footballer and commentator Andy Townsend believes Mohamad Salah will win the award for the first time.

“I don’t see anyone else. When he gets the chance, he produces, I think he’s well worthy of it, definitely”.

The pair did, however, agree that if either Real Madrid or Liverpool win the Champions League, that could decide the winner of the Ballon d’Or.

The sides could face each other in the semi-final should they both make it through the round of 16 and quarter final with the first matches of the knockout round beginning in a weeks’ time.

(Featured image courtesy of Alamy Ltd)

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR