Barcelona star Raphinha expressed frustration over his Ballon d’Or ranking, arguing that his overall season statistics and trophy haul deserved the top prize despite the heavy weighting of European competitions.
Brazil international Raphinha has voiced his frustration regarding the recent Ballon d’Or results, admitting he expected a podium finish.
While acknowledging the heavy influence of continental success on the voting, the winger remained defiant about his personal achievements.
“I was sad because I expected better. I expected to at least be in the top three,” he remarked, noting the Champions League’s disproportionate impact.
The forward insisted his individual output justified the highest honors despite the eventual rankings.
“I think I DESERVED to be first in the Ballon D’Or for the titles I won, numbers I achieved and everything I contributed,” he stated.
He noted that while Ousmane Dembélé was also a worthy contender, his own season-long consistency should have been the deciding factor for the victory.