Ronaldo Leads in World Media Value

While Cristiano Ronaldo has fallen behind in global fan voting for the Best Player in the World, The Economics, Sports and Intangibles research group (ESIrg) at the Universidad de Navarra reports that the United star still leads the way in terms of "media value in football":

"We present the media value evolution of three selected top players after two months of competition. As in our precedent measurement, Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United) is the current top player in terms of monthly media value. He is followed by Lionel Messi (FC Barcelona) and Fernando Torres (Liverpool). The picture has nevertheless substantially changed in between, as right now, Cristiano Ronaldo has lost his previous absolute dominance in terms of global media attention. In fact, Fernando Torres first and Lionel Messi afterwards have become worldwide football reference in October. Media value leadership is completely open."

Footballers by Media Value (mid-season 2008/09 ):

1) Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United)
2) Lionel Messi (Barcelona)
3) Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)
4) Fernando Torres (Liverpool)
5) Kaka (AC Milan)
6) Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)
7) Ronaldinho (AC Milan)
8) Didier Drogba (Chelsea)
9) Robinho (Manchester City)
10) David Beckham (AC Milan, LA Galaxy)

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