Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has slammed FIFA president Sepp Blatter over reports of his endorsement of Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer for the Ballon d'Or.
For most people in the game, Real star Cristiano Ronaldo deserves the gong.
"It always surprises me what he does, but what can we do. It’s impossible to shut the mouth of the FIFA president," said Ancelotti.
"It is a subject that he always speaks about. There is not much to think about. It is Cristiano’s year, he has been scoring goals and winning important titles, and there is no doubt that the Ballon d’Or is his."
"Therefore those words do not make much sense.”
However, after their Copa win over Cornella, Ancelotti again addressed the issue.
“I need to redress what I said. The question I was asked this morning wasn't very clear. He didn't ask for Neuer to win the Ballon d'Or, instead he was referring to the World Cup Golden Ball, which I agree with him about. As such, I would like to redress what I said this morning."