LIONEL Messi is on course for a record-equalling third consecutive Ballon d’Or after the Argentine forward was named on a three-man shortlist yesterday.
Messi’s Barcelona team-mate Xavi and Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo were also shortlisted, with clubs from Spain’s La Liga providing the top three for the third year in a row.
Messi, who won the Ballon d’Or in 2009 and ’10, will be the favourite to complete a hat-trick of titles after his man-of-the-match performance helped the Spanish side beat Manchester United in the Champions League final in May.
Portuguese forward Ronaldo won the award in 2008, while Xavi has finished third in the last two editions.
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson, Barcelona’s Pep Guardiola and Real Madrid’s Jose Mourinho were shortlisted for the coach of the year award.
United were also represented in the category for the 2011 goal of the year – the Fifa Puskas award – with Wayne Rooney nominated for his stunning overhead kick against Manchester City last season. Messi’s clever chip and volley over Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny in the Champions League last 16 last season was also put forward, as was Brazil striker Neymar’s incredible solo effort for Santos against Flamengo in July.
Brazil’s Marta will be looking for a sixth consecutive women’s player of the year award but faces stiff competition from Japan’s Homare Sawa and American Abby Wambach.
The winners will be announced on January 9th in Zurich.
