Tuesday, June 30, 2009

How Can Forbes.com Call Zidane Unproductive When He Scored Championship Winning Goals Like This?:



"The highest transfer fee ever paid through last month was $81 million (in current dollars) for Zinédine Zidane by Real Madrid in 2002. In total, after collecting $41 million in salary over five seasons, Zidane cost the club $121 million. In return, the French midfielder, a three-time World Player of the Year during his career, scored in 24% and tallied an assist in 20% of Real's league contests over five seasons, making him one of the least productive players among those with the highest transfer fees. By our measure Zizou was hardly a bargain, with each goal-making play he was involved in costing Real $1.2 million." (Source)

Forbes.com Says Ronaldo's Goals Will Be Expensive But His Payback Will Be As Big As Beckham's:



Forbes.com compares Real Madrid's Ronaldo aquisition to that of Zidane:

"The bounty paid for Zidane is a mere pittance compared with the record $130 million transfer fee Real paid Manchester United in early June for Cristiano Ronaldo, the reigning Best Player in the World. Ronaldo's soon-to-be teammate Kaka, the 27-year-old 2007 World Player of the Year, held the transfer record just two days prior to Ronaldo when Real Madrid shelled out $91 million to acquire his rights from AC Milan. The fees paid for the dynamic duo increased the all-time average transfer fee for our top 10 list 20% to $75 million."

"The 24-year-old Ronaldo, branded as CR7, inked a six-year contract that is estimated to initially pay $15.5 million and increase 25% each season. In total he could cost the club $304 million. If the Portuguese winger scored a goal in every game in six seasons in La Liga, he would rank fourth on our list, with each point costing Real $670,000. It would be unprecedented to go on a scoring tear like that. More likely if he produces as he did at Man U, scoring in 43% and registering an assist in 21% of his career matches, Ronaldo would rank eighth on our list with each goal-making play he was involved in costing the club $1.25 million.

But the better comparison is to Beckham:

"And some players are worth every transfer penny, even if they fail to deliver on the pitch, because of the marketing dollars they generate for their clubs. After Real Madrid paid a $50 million transfer fee to ManU in 2000 for David Beckham, Real earned $100 million from selling Beckham jerseys in his first six months with the club. In total, Beckham made a staggering $600 million in marketing and commercial activities for the club during his four years in Spain. Ronaldo may have a similar impact." (Source)

Real Madrid Doctors Find That Kaka Is Ready To Once Again Become The Best Player In The World:

When you see footage like this you wonder how anyone could ever have imagined him living and playing in Manchester:



''The tests taken today show that he is a player in perfect condition to play football at the highest level as has been seen at the Confederations Cup.

''These test have been done to complement the ones done in Brazil. We have incorporated new protocols, such as a biomechanic study, which allows us to study the player and be able to prevent future injuries and optimise his performances.'' (Source)

Xavi Gets All Moral On Ronaldo: Wouldn't Want Him To Play For Barca:



"The best player in the world is Lionel Messi and there's no chance he will switch allegiance," Xavi said in Sport.

"We also have Andres Iniesta, Thierry Henry and Samuel Eto'o and with that kind of luxury, we are capable of doing anything.

"As for Ronaldo, I wouldn't want him here. At Barca, we do not have room for players who fill gossip magazines.

"We are hard workers and sportsmen but he, on the other hand, is uncontrollable." (Source)

---

Xavi should be careful with that holier than thou attitude - hard work and sportsmanship don't always win. Likability often enables players to win popularity contests and be considered the best player in the world (as Gabriele Marcotti argued) but likability has nothing to do with winning championships.

Here's where Messi and Ronaldo stand today in our popularity contest at Bestplayerintheworld.com:

Lionel Messi 46% (1003 votes)

Cristiano Ronaldo 22% (479 votes)

Steven Gerrard 7% (152 votes)
Andres Iniesta 4% (85 votes)
Fernando Torres 3% (65 votes)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic 2% (52 votes)
Kaka 2% (50 votes)
Frank Lampard 2% (39 votes)
Wayne Rooney 1% (30 votes)
Ronaldinho 1% (29 votes)
Andrei Arshavin 1% (24 votes)
Nemanja Vidic 1% (17 votes)
Franck Ribery 1% (16 votes)
Luka Modric 1% (17 votes)
Xavi Hernandez 1% (16 votes)
Robinho 1% (15 votes)
Didier Drogba 1% (16 votes)
Cesc Fabregas 1% (13 votes)
Samuel Eto'o 1% (12 votes)
David Villa 1% (12 votes)
Iker Casillas 1% (11 votes)
Arjen Robben <1% (9 votes)
Ashley Young <1% (8 votes)
Petr Cech <1% (8 votes)
Emmanuel Adebayor <1% (6 votes)
Gianluigi Buffon <1% (6 votes)
Sergio (Kun) Aguero <1% (5 votes)

Total Votes: 2195

Monday, June 29, 2009

As Great As He Is Wayne Rooney Wants To Be Greater:



“For me personally, next season could be the season that transforms me from someone who could be a great player into someone who is a great player,” Rooney said. “That’s what I’m hoping. It’s a massive season for the club and for me personally, with the prize at the end of it being the World Cup. It’s a season which I want to grab with both hands." (Source)

It's that hunger, that drive, that desire to get better and better that makes the best players the best.

Vote for Wayne Rooney and the other best players in the world at Bestplayerintheworld.com.

Scolari Thinks Kaka And Ronaldo Will Get On Just Fine In Madrid:



''Kaka is a strange player because of what he does both on and off the field,'' Scolari said of his countryman. ''That guy is a strange jewel. Despite having gained big fame and money, he keeps doing his best on the pitch like a youngster.

''I am sure Cristiano Ronaldo and he will get on very well with each other. Cristiano has nothing to do with the conceited image everybody has of him. I think both of them will be big friends." (Source)

Here's where Kaka and Ronaldo stand in Bestplayerintheworld.com rankings as of 7am Eastern Standard Time on Monday June 29, 2009:

Lionel Messi 46% (998 votes)
Cristiano Ronaldo 22% (476 votes)
Steven Gerrard 7% (152 votes)
Andres Iniesta 4% (83 votes)
Fernando Torres 3% (63 votes)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic 2% (50 votes)
Kaka 2% (50 votes)

Frank Lampard 2% (39 votes)
Wayne Rooney 1% (30 votes)
Ronaldinho 1% (29 votes)
Andrei Arshavin 1% (24 votes)
Nemanja Vidic 1% (17 votes)
Franck Ribery 1% (16 votes)
Luka Modric 1% (17 votes)
Xavi Hernandez 1% (16 votes)
Robinho 1% (15 votes)
Didier Drogba 1% (16 votes)
Cesc Fabregas 1% (13 votes)
Samuel Eto'o 1% (12 votes)
David Villa 1% (12 votes)
Iker Casillas 1% (11 votes)
Arjen Robben <1% (9 votes)
Ashley Young <1% (8 votes)
Petr Cech <1% (8 votes)
Emmanuel Adebayor <1% (6 votes)
Gianluigi Buffon <1% (6 votes)
Sergio (Kun) Aguero <1% (5 votes)

Total Votes: 2181

Scolari - Best Players, Not Coaches Are Running Teams:



''The real owners of football at the moment are the players. The coach, in most European clubs, has no strength to contradict them.

''The people sacked are always the coaches. The main players already know this. That was my problem at Chelsea. Drogba, Ballack and Cech did not accept my training methods or my demands.'' (Source)

Man Of The Match, Player Of The Tournament - Kaka Praises Team After Confederations Cup Win:



''The most important thing as I've always said is to win as a unit. All of that happened and Brazil was the champion.

''If it hadn't been for the team I wouldn't have been the best player or the man of the match.'' (Source)

Sunday, June 28, 2009

Kaka Thinks Man City Have A Long Way To Go Before They Can Attract The Best Players In The World:



"I was very flattered by Manchester City's interest in January but it is just a project at the moment. And with projects sometimes you don't know how long the investment will be there for," he said.

"Lots of smaller clubs have periods of spending big money. But suddenly the investment stops when the owner decides to do something else. Or sometimes it stops because of other reasons like a failing economy.

"Things can be great one moment and not so great the next moment. The organisation can collapse like a pack of playing cards. I felt the time was right for a change and Real Madrid is the club for me.

"It was not about a difference of quality between the Primera Liga and the Premier League. Real will always be a big club. Nobody can take away their history and their nine European Cups." (Source)

> We know the best player at Bestplayerintheworld.com.

Can Robin Van Persie Become The Best Player In The World?

Maybe if he keeps scoring goals like these:



"I'm not in negotiations with any other club - just Arsenal," van Persie told the News of the World. "I want to become the best player in the world. My career will only be a success when I consider myself the best. Anything less won't do." (Source)

Man City Offer 30m Euros For 19th Best Player In The World, Samuel Eto'o:

Here is Eto'o skinning the best centreback in the world, Nemanja Vidic:



Barcelona president Joan Laporta:

''Eto'o has a stratospheric offer from City, which would convert him into the best paid player in the world,'' he told Catalan radio station iCat FM. ''It's starting to become clear that he has this monster offer."

''He wants to stay but an offer like this is very difficult to refuse. If Eto'o accepts this stratospheric offer we will have to bring in someone.'' (Source)

Here's where Eto'o stands as of 11am Eastern Standard Time on Sunday June 28th, 2009:

Lionel Messi 46% (993 votes)
Cristiano Ronaldo 22% (476 votes)
Steven Gerrard 7% (152 votes)
Andres Iniesta 4% (83 votes)
Fernando Torres 3% (63 votes)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic 2% (49 votes)
Kaka 2% (49 votes)
Frank Lampard 2% (39 votes)
Wayne Rooney 1% (30 votes)
Ronaldinho 1% (29 votes)
Andrei Arshavin 1% (24 votes)
Nemanja Vidic 1% (17 votes)
Franck Ribery 1% (16 votes)
Luka Modric 1% (17 votes)
Xavi Hernandez 1% (16 votes)
Robinho 1% (15 votes)
Didier Drogba 1% (16 votes)
Cesc Fabregas 1% (13 votes)
Samuel Eto'o 1% (12 votes)
David Villa 1% (11 votes)
Iker Casillas 1% (11 votes)
Arjen Robben <1% (9 votes)
Ashley Young <1% (8 votes)
Petr Cech <1% (8 votes)
Emmanuel Adebayor <1% (6 votes)
Gianluigi Buffon <1% (6 votes)
Sergio (Kun) Aguero <1% (5 votes)

Total Votes: 2173

Vote for your favourite players at Bestplayerintheworld.com.

Friday, June 26, 2009

First Every Player Was For Sale Now No Players Are For Sale:



First David Villa was taken off the market by Valencia, now it is Ribery being taken off the market by Bayern:

Franz Beckenbauer:

''Franck Ribery is irreplaceable,'' he told L'Equipe. ''Real Madrid know our position: he is not for sale. That Franck wants to go to Real is not a surprise. It's a fascinating club and attractive on a financial level.

''But Bayern are not a bad club either. At our club the doors are solid and very resistant and we're not going to push up the bidding.

''Ribery figures among the best players of the world. And when you have a player of this quality among the squad you don't separate.

''We want to build around this player who (Bayern coach) Louis van Gaal absolutely wants under his command.'' (Source)

Here is where Ribery stands in Bestplayerintheworld.com rankings at 1pm Eastern Standard Time on Friday June 26, 2009:

Lionel Messi 46% (985 votes)
Cristiano Ronaldo 22% (475 votes)
Steven Gerrard 7% (152 votes)
Andres Iniesta 4% (81 votes)
Fernando Torres 3% (62 votes)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic 2% (49 votes)
Kaka 2% (46 votes)
Frank Lampard 2% (39 votes)
Wayne Rooney 1% (29 votes)
Ronaldinho 1% (29 votes)
Andrei Arshavin 1% (23 votes)
Nemanja Vidic 1% (17 votes)
Franck Ribery 1% (16 votes)
Luka Modric 1% (16 votes)
Xavi Hernandez 1% (16 votes)
Robinho 1% (15 votes)
Didier Drogba 1% (14 votes)
Cesc Fabregas 1% (13 votes)
Samuel Eto'o 1% (12 votes)
David Villa 1% (11 votes)
Iker Casillas 1% (11 votes)
Arjen Robben <1% (9 votes)
Ashley Young <1% (8 votes)
Petr Cech <1% (7 votes)
Emmanuel Adebayor <1% (5 votes)
Gianluigi Buffon <1% (6 votes)
Sergio (Kun) Aguero <1% (5 votes)

Total Votes: 2151

Vote for Ribery or your best player at Bestplayerintheworld.com.

Thursday, June 25, 2009

With Iniesta Injured and Xavi Neutralized Spain Lose To U.S. In Confederations Cup:



Andres Iniesta, currently ranked as the 4th best player in the world at Bestplayerintheworld.com, is out injured and Xavi misses him very much:

"I am missing Iniesta in the team. I spoke to him yesterday and asked him how he is." (Source)

That's what Xavi said before yesterday's loss.

Here is what U.S. coach Bob Bradley said of Xavi before the game:

“He is so precise in the way he can find the little spots to get the ball, play the ball quickly, move, get it back...His ability to control the game, to be on the ball, dictate the tempo, he’s tremendous in all ways. One of the best players in the world.” (Source)

And here is what the U.S. coach had his players do to neutralize Xavi in their victory yesterday:

"We made a special point to close down Xavi, trying to force him to play the ball square or behind him so that he couldn't play any of those penetrating passes he is so good at," Bradley told reporters.

"We did a very good job of sealing down the middle of the field. When you play Spain you have to work hard as a group to defend and when we had the ball we needed to be aggressive." (Source)

Here is where the two players stand in Bestplayerintheworld.com polling as of 8am Eastern Standard Time on Thursday June 25, 2009:

Lionel Messi 46% (974 votes)
Cristiano Ronaldo 22% (471 votes)
Steven Gerrard 7% (151 votes)
Andres Iniesta 4% (81 votes)
Fernando Torres 3% (62 votes)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic 2% (49 votes)
Kaka 2% (46 votes)
Frank Lampard 2% (38 votes)
Wayne Rooney 1% (29 votes)
Ronaldinho 1% (29 votes)
Andrei Arshavin 1% (23 votes)
Franck Ribery 1% (16 votes)
Nemanja Vidic 1% (16 votes)
Luka Modric 1% (15 votes)
Didier Drogba 1% (14 votes)
Xavi Hernandez 1% (15 votes)
Robinho 1% (15 votes)
Cesc Fabregas 1% (13 votes)
David Villa 1% (11 votes)
Samuel Eto'o 1% (12 votes)
Iker Casillas 1% (11 votes)
Arjen Robben <1% (9 votes)
Petr Cech <1% (7 votes)
Emmanuel Adebayor <1% (5 votes)
Gianluigi Buffon <1% (6 votes)
Sergio (Kun) Aguero <1% (5 votes)
Ashley Young <1% (8 votes)

Total Votes: 2131

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Mascherano Says That Messi Is The Best Player In The World:



'Without doubt, Messi is the best player in the world,' he said. 'To have him close by is a privilege. He knows no bounds in football.'

Can he be as good as Maradona? 'Time will tell, but it is certain that no one can be sure that he won't be. That puts him on a very high level, among the best in history, without doubt.' (Source)

Messi Leads Ronaldo By Large Margin In Best Player In The World Voting:

Bestplayerintheworld.com world-wide-fan-voting as of 7am Eastern Standard Time on Wednesday June 24, 2009:

1. Lionel Messi 46% (969 votes)

Cristiano Ronaldo 22% (468 votes)

Steven Gerrard 7% (149 votes)

Andres Iniesta 4% (81 votes)

Fernando Torres 3% (62 votes)

Zlatan Ibrahimovic 2% (49 votes)
Kaka 2% (46 votes)
Frank Lampard 2% (38 votes)
Wayne Rooney 1% (29 votes)
Ronaldinho 1% (29 votes)
Andrei Arshavin 1% (23 votes)
Franck Ribery 1% (16 votes)
Nemanja Vidic 1% (15 votes)
Luka Modric 1% (15 votes)
Didier Drogba 1% (14 votes)
Xavi Hernandez 1% (15 votes)
Robinho 1% (15 votes)
Cesc Fabregas 1% (13 votes)
David Villa 1% (11 votes)
Samuel Eto'o 1% (12 votes)
Iker Casillas 1% (11 votes)
Arjen Robben <1%>

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Ronaldo's Management Company Refutes Recent Quotes Attributed To The (Former) Best Player In The World:



"The best player in the world - who is spending the off-season with his family - has not, to date, given any interviews, nor will he in the next few days.

"As a result, it can be restated here that any statements that are still being attributed to him are devoid of truth and authenticity and must not be taken seriously." (Source)

Monday, June 22, 2009

Tim Howard's Two Best Players In The World Are Kaka And Ronaldo:



“He’s one of the two best players in the world,” Tim Howard, the American goalkeeper who plays with Everton of the English Premier League, said of Kaká. “To me, he’s amazing, because most of what he does is without flair. I think Cristiano Ronaldo is the other best player in the world, but he does it with flair. With Kaká, everything seems to be so simple for him, which is frustrating.” (Source)

So Real have the two best players in the world? Hmm.

Not what the fans of the world think these days.

Maicon The Best Fullback In The World?:



Inter owner Massimo Moratti on wanting to keep Maicon:

"Real Madrid have almost no interest in defenders, zero interest actually, which is fortunate because Maicon is the best full back in the world." (Source)

Robinho Reminds The World Of His Best Player Ambitions, Creating Two Goals As Brazil Crush Italy:



"Robinho let the return pass roll past him, Daniele De Rossi committed himsel and left Luis Fabiano with time to chip the ball over Buffon.

Worse was to come for the world champions as another driving run from Robinho forced the unfortunate Dossena to turn the ball past Buffon and send the Brazilians into raptures." (Source)

Here's where Robinho stands in Bestplayerintheworld.com world-wide-fan-polling as of 7am Eastern Standard Time on Monday June 22, 2009:

Lionel Messi 45% (947 votes)
Cristiano Ronaldo 22% (463 votes)
Steven Gerrard 7% (147 votes)
Andres Iniesta 4% (80 votes)
Fernando Torres 3% (61 votes)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic 2% (49 votes)
Kaka 2% (45 votes)
Frank Lampard 2% (36 votes)
Wayne Rooney 1% (29 votes)
Ronaldinho 1% (29 votes)
Andrei Arshavin 1% (23 votes)
Franck Ribery 1% (16 votes)
Nemanja Vidic 1% (15 votes)
Luka Modric 1% (15 votes)
Didier Drogba 1% (14 votes)
Xavi Hernandez 1% (14 votes)
Robinho 1% (14 votes)
Cesc Fabregas 1% (13 votes)
David Villa 1% (11 votes)
Samuel Eto'o 1% (11 votes)
Iker Casillas 1% (11 votes)
Arjen Robben <1% (9 votes)
Petr Cech <1% (7 votes)
Emmanuel Adebayor <1% (5 votes)
Gianluigi Buffon <1% (6 votes)
Sergio (Kun) Aguero <1% (5 votes)
Ashley Young <1% (7 votes)

Total Votes: 2082

Sunday, June 21, 2009

Ronaldo Says He Is Going To Madrid Not For Money But To Become One Of The Greatest Players Of All Time:



"Of course, I have not gone for the money."

"To go down as the greatest. It will take lots of work but that is my target. If you go down as the greatest at Madrid it means you are one of the greatest of all time." (Source)

Frontier Economics Says Messi Is Worth 34 Million Euros MORE Than Ronaldo:



"Real Madrid has recently broken the transfer market record with its €94 million (£80million) price tag for Cristiano Ronaldo. Frontier (Europe) has studied what determines a footballer’s transfer fee to ask whether these and other recent transfers are worth the money being paid.Frontier’s analysis suggests that the most recent transfers to Real Madrid were at the high end. Frontier’s model predicts a value of €90million (£77million) for Cristiano Ronaldo, €4million (£3 million) less than what Real Madrid paid Manchester United. The analysis can also be used to speculate on the current transfer value of other players if they moved to or within the Spanish League. The most expensive player would be Lionel Messi at €124million (£106 million) after a superb season with Barcelona. Steven Gerrard is the most expensive player in the England team at €51million (£43million). Frontier regularly works in valuation exercises and in the sports/creative industries." (Source)

David Villa Seeing Why It's Not Easy To Be One Of The Best Players In The World:



Who knows what exactly is going on in the background but David Villa is still managing to play well for Spain even though his club team, Valencia, are playing hardball as they try to sell him to another team:

"Last week was not easy at all. I admit that it's been bad for me. I wouldn't wish all this on anybody but, with the advice of my family, I've erased it all from my mind," he said.

"Also I've tried to have respect for the national team and my team-mates. I don't want them to see what I'm going through,

"Away from the pitch there are times when I'm worse. Nevertheless, when I go out on the pitch I try to show what I can do.

"On the pitch is where I feel better and I'm proud to be part of this national team, not only for the great team that it is but also for the great human quality." (Source)

> Here is where Villa currently stands in Bestplayerintheworld.com rankings as of 10am Eastern Standard Time on Sunday June 21, 2009:

Lionel Messi 45% (939 votes)
Cristiano Ronaldo 22% (461 votes)
Steven Gerrard 7% (146 votes)
Andres Iniesta 4% (79 votes)
Fernando Torres 3% (61 votes)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic 2% (49 votes)
Kaka 2% (45 votes)
Frank Lampard 2% (36 votes)
Wayne Rooney 1% (28 votes)
Ronaldinho 1% (28 votes)
Andrei Arshavin 1% (23 votes)
Franck Ribery 1% (16 votes)
Nemanja Vidic 1% (15 votes)
Luka Modric 1% (15 votes)
Didier Drogba 1% (14 votes)
Xavi Hernandez 1% (14 votes)
Robinho 1% (14 votes)
Cesc Fabregas 1% (13 votes)
19. David Villa 1% (11 votes)
Samuel Eto'o 1% (11 votes)
Iker Casillas 1% (11 votes)
Arjen Robben <1% (9 votes)
Petr Cech <1% (7 votes)
Emmanuel Adebayor <1% (5 votes)
Gianluigi Buffon <1% (6 votes)
Sergio (Kun) Aguero <1% (5 votes)
Ashley Young <1% (7 votes)
Total Votes: 2068

Given the pressures Villa alludes to, it makes you wonder what kind of pressure current 2nd Best Player In The World, Cristiano Roanldo, has been under as he and his people tried to negotiate a move away from the formidable Manchester United organization.

Saturday, June 20, 2009

Is It Possible?: Will Cristiano Ronaldo Become The Best Player In The World Again With Madrid?:



Ex-United teammate Zoran Tosic:

''He is going to again be the best player in the world. Last season he scored 42 goals, this time 27. And they all said it's his worst season because it was not enough. In Madrid he will be the best again.'' (Source)

Lionel Messi Is The Best Player In The World:



Based on Bestplayerintheworld.com polling as of 6pm Eastern Standard Time on Saturday June 20, 2009:

Lionel Messi 45% (934 votes)
Cristiano Ronaldo 22% (460 votes)
Steven Gerrard 7% (145 votes)
Andres Iniesta 4% (79 votes)
Fernando Torres 3% (61 votes)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic 2% (47 votes)
Kaka 2% (44 votes)
Frank Lampard 2% (35 votes)
Wayne Rooney 1% (28 votes)
Ronaldinho 1% (28 votes)
Andrei Arshavin 1% (23 votes)
Nemanja Vidic 1% (15 votes)
Franck Ribery 1% (16 votes)
Didier Drogba 1% (14 votes)
Xavi Hernandez 1% (14 votes)
Robinho 1% (14 votes)
Iker Casillas 1% (11 votes)
Cesc Fabregas 1% (13 votes)
Arjen Robben <1% (9 votes)
Samuel Eto'o 1% (11 votes)
Luka Modric 1% (15 votes)
Petr Cech <1% (7 votes)
David Villa <1% (10 votes)
Emmanuel Adebayor <1% (5 votes)
Gianluigi Buffon <1% (6 votes)
Sergio (Kun) Aguero <1% (5 votes)
Ashley Young <1% (7 votes)

Total Votes: 2056

Marcotti Thinks Likability Plays A Big Part In Who We Think Is The Best Player In The World:



Gabriele Marcotti writing in Sports Illustrated:

"Could the difference be -- ultimately -- the way these people look and come across? Messi and Kaká are both clean-cut and soft-spoken. They look shy and humble. There's something of the underdog about them (which, incidentally, isn't that far from the truth: Messi overcame a hormonal disorder, Kaká broke his neck when he was a kid). Ibrahimovic and Ronaldo both look big and brash. They remind you of the older kid in the playground who stepped into your pick-up games and ran circles around you.

"Of course, the marketing folks picked up on this a long, long time ago, which is why Messi and Kaká far outstrip the other two in terms of Q rating and commercial potential. As for who the greatest of the four is, it's open to debate, and everyone is entitled to his or her opinion. But because we're only human, odds are, the likability factor will affect the debate, probably far more than it should." (Source)

Friday, June 19, 2009

Barca Coach Says Messi And Iniesta Are Better Than Kaka And Ronaldo:

Messi and Iniesta combine for that beautiful, stunning game-winning goal against Chelsea in the Champions League semi-final:




Barca’s assistant coach, Tito Vilanova:

“They are strengthening their squad and Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka are both great players. But it is something that they had to do because they lost ground on us last season.

“Besides, we have Iniesta, the best midfielder in the world and Messi, the best forward. In my opinion, they are better than Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo,” he boomed proudly. (Source)

Here's where the four players stand in bestplayerintheworld.com world-wide-fan-voting as of 630pm Eastern Standard Time on Friday June 19, 2009:

1. Lionel Messi 46% (928 votes)

2. Cristiano Ronaldo 22% (456 votes)

Steven Gerrard 7% (145 votes)

4. Andres Iniesta 4% (77 votes)


Fernando Torres 3% (60 votes)

Zlatan Ibrahimovic 2% (46 votes)

7. Kaka 2% (43 votes)


Frank Lampard 2% (35 votes)
Wayne Rooney 1% (28 votes)
Ronaldinho 1% (27 votes)
Andrei Arshavin 1% (22 votes)
Nemanja Vidic 1% (15 votes)
Franck Ribery 1% (16 votes)
Didier Drogba 1% (14 votes)
Xavi Hernandez 1% (13 votes)
Robinho 1% (14 votes)
Iker Casillas 1% (11 votes)
Cesc Fabregas 1% (13 votes)
Arjen Robben <1% (9 votes)
Samuel Eto'o 1% (11 votes)
Luka Modric 1% (15 votes)
Petr Cech <1% (6 votes)
David Villa <1% (9 votes)
Emmanuel Adebayor <1% (5 votes)
Gianluigi Buffon <1% (6 votes)
Sergio (Kun) Aguero <1% (5 votes)
Ashley Young <1% (7 votes)

Total Votes: 2036

Barca Will Not Try To Compete With Real Madrid's Big Signings Because They Already Have...

...the Best Player In The World:

Lionel Messi:



"Identifying suitable signings is a tough task at any club, but is made even harder by the tenets that Barcelona hold dear. The club's 4-3-3 formation is sacrosanct, and players must fit in with the short, intricate passing game that the club has always propagated."

"Unlike at Real, players will not be signed simply because they are among the best in the world. They must also fit the system."

"We already have the best player in the world, Lio Messi," said Laporta. "But the most important thing that we have is a team that works. For our rivals, it's normal that they do their best to be more competitive than they were last season. Like I told you, they sign names, and we have a team." (Source)

Based on Messi's standing in the Bestplayerintheworld.com world-wide-fan-poll as of 4pm Eastern Standard Time on Friday June 19, 2009, Laporta is absolutely Correct:

Lionel Messi 46% (928 votes)
Cristiano Ronaldo 22% (454 votes)
Steven Gerrard 7% (145 votes)
Andres Iniesta 4% (76 votes)
Fernando Torres 3% (60 votes)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic 2% (46 votes)
Kaka 2% (43 votes)
Frank Lampard 2% (35 votes)
Wayne Rooney 1% (28 votes)
Ronaldinho 1% (27 votes)
Andrei Arshavin 1% (22 votes)
Nemanja Vidic 1% (15 votes)
Franck Ribery 1% (16 votes)
Didier Drogba 1% (14 votes)
Xavi Hernandez 1% (13 votes)
Robinho 1% (14 votes)
Iker Casillas 1% (11 votes)
Cesc Fabregas 1% (13 votes)
Arjen Robben <1% (9 votes)
Samuel Eto'o 1% (11 votes)
Luka Modric 1% (15 votes)
Petr Cech <1% (6 votes)
David Villa <1% (9 votes)
Emmanuel Adebayor <1% (5 votes)
Gianluigi Buffon <1% (6 votes)
Sergio (Kun) Aguero <1% (5 votes)
Ashley Young <1% (7 votes)

Total Votes: 2033

Ferguson Knew All Along That Ronaldo Would Become The Best Player In The World:



Jamie Redknapp recalls a moment from his playing days:

"When I came out of the changing room after one game, Sir Alex Ferguson asked after my dad Harry.

"At the end of a quick chat I said to him: ‘That’s some player you’ve got there. Your No 7 is a bit special.’

"He said: ‘Jamie, that lad will be the best player in the world, I’m telling you.’

"And he wasn’t wrong, was he?" (Source)

Inter Milan's Assessment Of Ibrahimovic In-Line With Bestplayerintheworld.com Poll:

Inter administrator Ernesto Paolillo puts Ibrahimovic above Kaka but below Ronaldo:

"The player knows that for the time being we have had no offers that are deemed suitable for his market value, which is superior to Kaka and slightly inferior to Cristiano Ronaldo in our estimation."

"The situation is being evaluated constantly by (Inter sporting director Marco) Branca," said Paolillo. "Regardless of the rumours that are coming from England and Spain, we find ourselves faced with an impasse that could be unblocked at any time just like it could also mean that Ibrahimovic's desired transfer does not happen." (Source)

As of today the fans of the world at bestplayerintheworld.com think the same:

Lionel Messi 46% (922 votes)
> Cristiano Ronaldo 22% (454 votes)
Steven Gerrard 7% (145 votes)
Andres Iniesta 4% (76 votes)
Fernando Torres 3% (60 votes)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic 2% (45 votes)
> Kaka 2% (43 votes)

If this is all true that means that Inter are looking for between 56m pounds (Kaka money) and 80m pounds (Ronaldo money).

Is Charlton Correct? That Even Though He's Still Young Ronaldo's Best Years Will Have Been With United?:



United legend Bobby Charlton:

"He is a great player. He's been with us for five or six years and in that time he has improved beyond all recognition.

"I suppose, in time, he will reflect, and say, that the best time he ever had in football was when he was at Manchester United. It was better for him and it was fantastic for the club.

"But we have no divine rights, we talked him out of it for one year but he's gone and we move on.

"Ronaldo leaves us because as a young boy he always dreamt about playing for Real Madrid, so if he leaves us, it's with our blessing.'' (Source)

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The best players in the world @ bestplayerintheworld.com.

Messi Holds 46% Of World Fan Vote At Bestplayerintheworld.com:

In the livingrooms of the world, Lionel Messi is the best player in the world:



Here are Messi's numbers as of 7am Eastern Standard Time on Friday June 19, 2009:

Lionel Messi 46% (922 votes)

Cristiano Ronaldo 22% (454 votes)

Steven Gerrard 7% (145 votes)

Andres Iniesta 4% (76 votes)

Fernando Torres 3% (60 votes)

Zlatan Ibrahimovic 2% (45 votes)
Kaka 2% (43 votes)
Frank Lampard 2% (33 votes)

Wayne Rooney 1% (28 votes)
Ronaldinho 1% (27 votes)
Andrei Arshavin 1% (22 votes)
Nemanja Vidic 1% (15 votes)
Franck Ribery 1% (16 votes)
Didier Drogba 1% (14 votes)
Xavi Hernandez 1% (13 votes)
Robinho 1% (14 votes)
Iker Casillas 1% (11 votes)
Cesc Fabregas 1% (13 votes)
Arjen Robben <1% (9 votes)
Samuel Eto'o 1% (11 votes)
Luka Modric 1% (15 votes)
Petr Cech <1% (6 votes)
David Villa <1% (9 votes)
Emmanuel Adebayor <1% (5 votes)
Gianluigi Buffon <1% (6 votes)
Sergio (Kun) Aguero <1% (5 votes)
Ashley Young <1% (7 votes)

Total Votes: 2024

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Fans can follow the best players in the world at bestplayerintheworld.com.

Thursday, June 18, 2009

David Villa Is Spain's 2nd Best Scorer Of All Time And He Has Picked His Next Team:



Only he's not telling anyone just yet:

"I have made my decision," Villa told the press in Bloemfontein. "My agent knows my wishes, and he is now working on that - so I am relaxed.

"There is no deadline on the subject, and I really do not have any more details as this whole thing is not totally dependent on me." (Source)

Yesterday he scored Spain's only goal to beat Iraq and put his team into the Confederations Cup Quarter-Final:

"Forward David Villa's powerful 55th minute header made him Spain's second highest scorer of all time with 30 goals - 14 behind Raul's record of 44." (Source)

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Follow the best players in the world at Bestplayerintheworld.com.

The Best Player In The World Today?: Lionel Messi:

Today's Bestplayerintheworld.com rankings:

Lionel Messi 45% (913 votes)

Cristiano Ronaldo 23% (452 votes)

Steven Gerrard 7% (145 votes)

Andres Iniesta 4% (75 votes)

Fernando Torres 3% (59 votes)

Zlatan Ibrahimovic 2% (45 votes)
Kaka 2% (43 votes)
Frank Lampard 2% (32 votes)

Wayne Rooney 1% (28 votes)
Ronaldinho 1% (27 votes)
Andrei Arshavin 1% (22 votes)
Nemanja Vidic 1% (15 votes)
Franck Ribery 1% (15 votes)
Didier Drogba 1% (14 votes)
Xavi Hernandez 1% (13 votes)
Robinho 1% (14 votes)
Iker Casillas 1% (11 votes)
Cesc Fabregas 1% (13 votes)
Arjen Robben <1% (9 votes)
Samuel Eto'o 1% (11 votes)
Luka Modric 1% (13 votes)
Petr Cech <1% (6 votes)
David Villa <1% (9 votes)
Emmanuel Adebayor <1% (5 votes)
Gianluigi Buffon <1% (6 votes)
Sergio (Kun) Aguero <1% (5 votes)
Ashley Young <1% (7 votes)

Total Votes: 2007

(8am Eastern Standard Time, Thursday June 18, 2009)

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Follow the best players in the world at bestplayerintheworld.com.

Figo Says Real Are Not Guaranteed Success With Best Players In The World:



"The philosophy continues to be the same - to sign great players. I only hope that the on-field results accompany that. It's normal that you would always prefer to have the best players in the world, but this doesn't guarantee you success," former Real Madrid star Figo said. (Source)

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Follow the best players in the world at bestplayerintheworld.com.

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Hillarious Video: How United Fans Really Should Feel About Losing Cristiano Ronaldo, One Of The Best Players In The World:

Related:

What Martin Samuel had to say about everyone's sudden relief that Ronaldo had left United and England:

"The idea that United are better off without him, or that he can be easily replaced, is too far-fetched even for a sport that is right now looking back on Freddy Shepherd's time at Newcastle as some golden age and wondering again whether David Beckham could play holding midfield for England against strong opposition.

"The latest development is that Ronaldo will be replaced by Luis Antonio Valencia of Wigan Athletic. And had Valencia not scored fewer goals in the entirety of last season than Ronaldo did in the four days between October 29 and November 1, they could be twins.

"As for Ronaldo, judging by the reaction, he is better off at Real Madrid. We didn't deserve him anyway, that useless 67-goal, best footballer you'll ever see at your ground, mate, peacock." (Source)

Queiroz Thinks Ronaldo Will Descend Into Decadence In Murky Madrid:

Video of CR7 leaving a night club:

Ronaldo's "current" Portugal manager Carlos Queiroz:

'I have my opinion about my wish regarding the career of Cristiano - and I think Manchester United was the right club for him,' said the 56-year-old.

'It's something to do with the fashion, the television, a different game that is in place nowadays.

'I must say that at Real Madrid, these things can happen very easily.' (Source)

To Become The Best Player In The World: You Need To Be Able To Freestyle With The Best Of Them:

Video: Cristiano Ronaldo's famous duel with Billy Wingrove:



A great freestyler doesn't always make for a great player, nor is a great player always a great freestyler.

But Ronaldo can go toe-to-toe with the great Wingrove.

Hats off to CR7.

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Vote for the best players at bestplayerintheworld.com.

Fabregas: Ronaldo Won Last Two Leagues For United On His Own:

Here's the video evidence:

Ronaldo's incredible long-range goals vs Porto and Arsenal last season:



"He is such a good player and very difficult to stop...Ronaldo won the last two leagues on his own."

"The truth is it [Ronaldo's move to Real] is a big piece of luck for the rest of us that he is gone," he continued. "It will be one problems less for us to deal with next season." (Source)

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Vote for the best players at bestplayerintheworld.com

Breaking News: Lionel Messi Loses Percentage Point In Best Player In The World Poll:

Perhaps Messi needs a spark?:



Yep, Messi is down to 45% from 46% of all vote getters.

Is this part of a new voting trend among the fans of the world? Now that we are in the off-season and the glow of the Champions League duel between Messi and Ronaldo has faded, are fans starting to focus on other players? Are fans maybe projecting already who will be the best player next season. Or are fans perhaps falling prey to the hype of the transfer season, fuelled by agents' exaggerations? Where are the extra votes now going?

And will Ronaldo be benefitting from this downward movement from Messi or will another player such as Gerrard or Torres or Iniesta?

Here is where all of the best players in the world stand in bestplayerintheworld.com polling as of 9am Eastern Standard Time on Wednesday June 17, 2009:


Lionel Messi 45% (905 votes)

Cristiano Ronaldo 23% (450 votes)

Steven Gerrard 7% (143 votes)

Andres Iniesta 4% (75 votes)

Fernando Torres 3% (59 votes)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic 2% (45 votes)
Kaka 2% (43 votes)

Frank Lampard 2% (30 votes)
Wayne Rooney 1% (27 votes)
Ronaldinho 1% (27 votes)
Andrei Arshavin 1% (22 votes)

Nemanja Vidic 1% (15 votes)
Franck Ribery 1% (15 votes)
Didier Drogba 1% (14 votes)
Xavi Hernandez 1% (13 votes)
Robinho 1% (13 votes)
Iker Casillas 1% (11 votes)
Cesc Fabregas 1% (13 votes)
Arjen Robben <1% (9 votes)
Samuel Eto'o 1% (11 votes)
Luka Modric 1% (12 votes)
Petr Cech <1% (6 votes)
David Villa <1% (9 votes)
Emmanuel Adebayor <1% (5 votes)
Gianluigi Buffon <1% (6 votes)
Sergio (Kun) Aguero <1% (5 votes)
Ashley Young <1% (7 votes)

Total Votes: 1990

Dave Whelan Is Right: Michael Owen Has No Bottle:

And He Hasn't Had It For A Long Time:

The Question is: Why Did We Ever Think Owen Could Be The Best Player In The World?:

Here's the video evidence:



Here's what Wigan Chairman Dave Whelan had to say today about the possibility of Owen join his side:

"We haven't received the brochure, and we wouldn't be interested in him anyway. His wages are too expensive, for one thing, and, for another, you have to ask whether he still has the urge, the bottle and the drive.

"I hope he has, because he has been a great player. But that's a big question. I tried to sign him when he came back from Real Madrid. I told his agent I'd pay the £15m asking price and allow him to move on whenever he pleased because I wanted him to be playing over here in readiness for the World Cup the following year.

"He's looking a bit injury-prone these days, and he does love his horses. His wages will come down, but it would still be a hell of a lot for us to pay someone more than £25,000 a week." (Source)

> Vote for the best players at bestplayerintheworld.com

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Is Lionel Messi The Best Player In The World?

View the video evidence:



And vote at bestplayerintheworld.com

18m Pound Man: Liverpool Land Glen Johnson, "One of the best right backs in the world":

One of the best? That what pfcproductions thinks. Let's have a look:



Silly Season Reactions To Johnson Move To LFC:

Glen Johnson: "Thank you very much Fabio Capello."

Portsmouth FC: "Thank you very much Fabio Capello."

Liverpool FC: "How much for Glen Johnson? We'll take him."

Robbie Keane: "18m? Good luck to Glen Johnson."

Fabio Capello: "I didn't do anything special. In Italy we call it coaching."

Harry Rednapp: "Hey what do I look like here, chopped liver? Fabio plays him here or there, I played him, taught him, nursed him, damn near breast-fed him, day-in-day-out and everybody thinks of it as an Italian job..."

Fernando Torres: (Holding his hamstring.) "Umm, Rafa? Hope you've got enough cash left for another top striker."

> Vote for your best player at bestplayerintheworld.com

Poll: What Do You Like Best About The Best Player In The World Lionel Messi?:

This poll comes out of former Best Player In The World Cristiano Ronaldo's statement that he loves to be hated.

Tell us what you like best about the current Best Player In The World:



> Everybody has a favourite at bestplayerintheworld.com

Poll: What Do You Hate Most About Ronaldo?:

Ronaldo says that he loves to be hated:

"I love it when people jeer me. I love to see the hate in their eyes, to hear the insults. It doesn't bother me.

"It's true lots of people hate me but there are even more who love me and who support me. I feel bad only when I play badly. Fortunately, that happens rarely." (Source)

So tell us then what you hate most about Ronaldo:

Who Is Douglas Costa And Will Manchester United Pay 17M Pounds For Him?:

"Douglas, who has received rave reviews in his homeland, has four years remaining on his contract with Gremio but reportedly has a £17.8m buyout clause.

"The diminutive U20 international is seen as one of the biggest up-and-coming talents in Brazil - alongside Santos winger Neymar and Palmeiras striker Keirrison - and is also a free-kick specialist. Costa generally plays through the centre but can also play on the left." (Source)

What Is Rummenigge Smoking? Ribery One Of The Three Best Players In The World? Vote At Bestplayerintheworld.com:



Here's what Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has to say about star player Franck Ribery:

"Real Madrid president Florentino Perez and his advisor Pedro Jimenez asked if we were willing to speak with them over a transfer but we rejected the chance and we have no intention of selling Ribery," the former Germany international told Bild.

"We are relaxed and proud that we have one of the best three players in the world under contract. The power lies with Bayern Munich." (Source)

But based on our data Ribery, while one of the best players in the world, is not even in the clearly defined 7 Best Players.

Here are the best players in the world as of 7am Eastern Standard Time on Tuesday June, 2009:

Lionel Messi 46% (897 votes)
Cristiano Ronaldo 23% (445 votes)
Steven Gerrard 7% (138 votes)
Andres Iniesta 4% (72 votes)
Fernando Torres 3% (57 votes)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic 2% (45 votes)
Kaka 2% (43 votes)

Frank Lampard 1% (29 votes)
Wayne Rooney 1% (26 votes)
Ronaldinho 1% (27 votes)
Andrei Arshavin 1% (22 votes)
Nemanja Vidic 1% (15 votes)
Franck Ribery 1% (15 votes)

Didier Drogba 1% (14 votes)
Xavi Hernandez 1% (13 votes)
Robinho 1% (12 votes)
Iker Casillas 1% (11 votes)
Cesc Fabregas 1% (12 votes)
Arjen Robben <1% (9 votes)
Samuel Eto'o 1% (11 votes)
Luka Modric 1% (11 votes)
Petr Cech <1% (6 votes)
David Villa <1% (9 votes)
Emmanuel Adebayor <1% (5 votes)
Gianluigi Buffon <1% (6 votes)
Sergio (Kun) Aguero <1% (5 votes)
Ashley Young <1% (5 votes)

Total Votes: 1960

Bestplayerintheworld.com > Voted on by the fans for the fans

Real Madrid Finally Come To Their Senses: Refuse To Pay Crazy Money For Villa and Ribery:

Real's director general Jeorge Valadano:

"We have been in talks to buy Villa the past week but there has been no agreement," Valdano said in an interview with Spanish radio station Onda Cero.

"What appeared to be well on the way to happening looks now to be falling through," he added. "If there is no accord we still have two or three more alternatives." (Source)

> Vote for the best players at bestplayerintheworld.com

Ridiculous: Nani Thinks He Can Replace Ronaldo:



Nani:

"I can have more opportunities. Cristiano was very important but now I think I can show my value.

"Cristiano's departure is not impossible to fix." (Source)

Nani could end up being a pretty good player but how is it that some fans and players all of a sudden think that just anyone can replace Ronaldo's rare skill, power and determination?

He was the best player in the world for a reason.

He was the best player in the world while Nani was sitting on the United bench.

> Vote for the best player at bestplayerintheworld.com

Monday, June 15, 2009

The Ronaldo Departure: Will The Best Players In The World Start Avoiding United?



Martin Samuel of the Daily Mail seems to think so and can't understand why so many people, including United fans are happy that Cristiano is gone:


"The positive reaction to his departure is almost wantonly bizarre with many joining Gordon Brown, the Prime Minister - and there is the warning, straightaway - in predicting that United will emerge stronger, as if losing the World Player of the Year is going to make your club more appealing to the best players.

"Is it not logical; players who previously felt they were at the best, the strongest, club in the world, might now have second thoughts. It is no surprise that within 24 hours of the bid for Ronaldo being accepted, unsettling rumours around Nemanja Vidic resurfaced. The odds on Carlos Tevez leaving increased, too." (Source)

Poll: Who Hates Ronaldo The Most?:

Ronaldo has himself said:

"I love it when people jeer me. I love to see the hate in their eyes, to hear the insults. It doesn't bother me.

"It's true lots of people hate me but there are even more who love me and who support me. I feel bad only when I play badly. Fortunately, that happens rarely." (Source)

Tell us what you think by answering this poll:

Kaka Explains Why It's Important For Teams To Have The Best Players In The World:



"He is an excellent player who can bring a lot to the team...To have players who can decide a match on their own is very important and Cristiano can do that.'' (Source)

Video: Former Best Player In The World Cristiano Ronaldo Now Performing In Las Vegas:

Robin Leach:

"After signing the $134 million contract to move from Britain’s Manchester United to Spain’s Real Madrid, Cristiano and five pals hit Los Angeles, where he was spotted for two consecutive nights with the socialite and reality TV star. They were linked about a year ago by gossip tabloids when they first met.


"Paris and Cristiano were seen at the nightspot My House one night and again the next evening when she hosted a private dinner party for him at her Beverly Hills home. They were caught the next morning at 5 a.m. leaving her sister Nicky Hilton’s home! It set off a firestorm of frenzy with tabloid reporters and paparazzi from both sides of the Atlantic, and Cristiano fled for Las Vegas while Paris said she had to leave for a personal appearance on the East Coast." (Source)

---

Alright then, it's not over yet - his time as the best player in the world. And it's probably a good thing that he's relaxing in the USA for a bit because the amount of attention and pressure he is going to see as a Real Madrid Galctico 2.0 is going to be like nothing before. Can't wait to see if in fact Cristiano can become the best player in the world again.

> Vote for the best players at bestplayerintheworld.com

Inter Owner Moratti Says Ibrahimovic Is The Best:

And he wants 90 Million Euros for him:



''If it is true that Bayern Munich have placed a €70m tag on Ribery, then I will need to ask a minimum of €90m (for Ibrahimovic),''

''If we are talking about Barcelona I think (Barcelona president) Laporta is far away from the mega-investment policy that Real Madrid have made so far,'' he said.

''I reiterate that I would gladly keep Ibrahimovic,'' said Moratti. ''Ibrahimovic is at Inter and Ibrahimovic is the best, in my opinion.'' (Source)

Here is where Ibrahimovic actually stands in bestplayerintheworld.com rankings as of 1pm Eastern Standard Time on Monday June 15, 2009:

Lionel Messi 46% (887 votes)
Cristiano Ronaldo 23% (437 votes)
Steven Gerrard 7% (137 votes)
Andres Iniesta 4% (72 votes)
Fernando Torres 3% (57 votes)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic 2% (45 votes)
Kaka 2% (42 votes)
Frank Lampard 2% (29 votes)
Wayne Rooney 1% (26 votes)
Ronaldinho 1% (27 votes)
Andrei Arshavin 1% (22 votes)
Nemanja Vidic 1% (15 votes)
Franck Ribery 1% (13 votes)
Didier Drogba 1% (13 votes)
Xavi Hernandez 1% (13 votes)
Robinho 1% (12 votes)
Iker Casillas <1% (9 votes)
Cesc Fabregas 1% (12 votes)
Arjen Robben <1% (9 votes)
Samuel Eto'o 1% (10 votes)
Luka Modric 1% (10 votes)
Petr Cech <1% (6 votes)
David Villa <1% (9 votes)
Emmanuel Adebayor <1% (5 votes)
Gianluigi Buffon <1% (6 votes)
Sergio (Kun) Aguero <1% (5 votes)
Ashley Young <1% (5 votes)

Total Votes: 1933

> Vote for the best player at bestplayerintheworld.com

Sunday, June 14, 2009

Zidane's Best Players Are Limited To Three:



"Yes Manchester United are losing one of the top three players in the world..." (Source)

Hmm...Messi and Ronaldo are clearly two of them and he called Steven Gerrard the best player in the world mere months ago.

Therefore Zidane's three have to be Messi, Ronaldo and... Gerrard.

Poll: Who Hates Ronaldo The Most?:



"I love it when people jeer me. I love to see the hate in their eyes, to hear the insults. It doesn't bother me.

"It's true lots of people hate me but there are even more who love me and who support me. I feel bad only when I play badly. Fortunately, that happens rarely." (Source)

Ronaldo Planning To Win More Medals Than Messi: Can He Become The Best Player In The World Again?:



"I have nothing to envy Lionel for. I don't compare myself to others. I am Cristiano Ronaldo - and I can win more medals than anybody else. I don't like to relax. The fans want to see a great Cristiano Ronaldo so I try to never disappoint." (Source)

Cocky Ronaldo "Aware" Of His "Bestness":



"I still have a long way to go. I really want to re-write the history of football.

"I am aware I'm already among the best of the best but I want to continue to write many more beautiful pages." (Source)

> Vote for the "bestest" players at bestplayerintheworld.com

Poll: If Ribery Is One Of The Best Players In The World Who Is He Better Than?:

This poll was created in response to the news that Zidane is pushing Ribery hard to join Ronaldo and Kaka at Real Madrid. The question is if Real pay as much for Ribery as they did for Kaka, how good is Ribery? Is he for instance as good as Kaka?:



> Vote for the best players at bestplayerintheworld.com

Real Madrid Ready To Spend More Money: Zidane Putting Heavy Pressure On Ribery:



"He is a fantastic player who has his place at Real. And playing in this team is a career opportunity, which, to me, you do not refuse."

"Bringing together the best players in the world has a cost." (Source)

> Vote for the best players at bestplayerintheworld.com

Torres Figures Gerrard Has Something Extra And Could Become The Best Player In The World In 2010:


"When people talk about the best footballers in Europe, they always single out Messi, and Ronaldo, but Gerrard is just as strong," begins Torres, who confirmed his commitment to Liverpool by signing a new contract at Anfield last month.

"Messi and Ronaldo are special talents and the fact that they are in teams winning the important trophies means they stand out from the rest. Maybe you need to win something to earn the big awards, I don't know, but we all understand how good Gerrard is.

"The highest compliment I can pay him is that he's as creative as a Xavi at Barcelona, with something extra as well. When you add his energy, toughness, leadership and goal scoring ability and the result is a fantastic all-round player.

"Maybe I am biased because he is my team-mate and friend, but Stevie does not get the credit he deserves either in England or with European fans. This can change in 2010 when he has a chance to confirm his class with Liverpool and in the World Cup." (Source)

Is Messi The Best Player In The World? Vote at bestplayerintheworld.com:

Messi has a big lead at bestplayerintheworld.com as of 6am Eastern Standard Time on Sunday June 14, 2009:

Lionel Messi 46% (880 votes)
Cristiano Ronaldo 23% (433 votes)
Steven Gerrard 7% (135 votes)
Andres Iniesta 4% (70 votes)
Fernando Torres 3% (55 votes)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic 2% (45 votes)
Kaka 2% (42 votes)

Frank Lampard 1% (28 votes)
Wayne Rooney 1% (26 votes)
Ronaldinho 1% (27 votes)
Andrei Arshavin 1% (21 votes)
Nemanja Vidic 1% (15 votes)
Franck Ribery 1% (12 votes)
Didier Drogba 1% (13 votes)
Xavi Hernandez 1% (11 votes)
Robinho 1% (12 votes)
Iker Casillas <1% (9 votes)
Cesc Fabregas 1% (10 votes)
Arjen Robben <1% (9 votes)
Samuel Eto'o 1% (10 votes)
Luka Modric 1% (10 votes)
Petr Cech <1% (6 votes)
David Villa <1% (9 votes)
Emmanuel Adebayor <1% (5 votes)
Gianluigi Buffon <1% (6 votes)
Sergio (Kun) Aguero <1% (4 votes)
Ashley Young <1%>

Total Votes: 1908

Saturday, June 13, 2009

PFA Chief: I Would Have Rooney Over Ronaldo:



"It is an interesting question and a difficult decision but as an Englishman, if I was asked to make a choice between the two I would have Wayne Rooney," declared Taylor.

"Wayne has not been far away from being one of the best players in the world for a long time and certainly the way he finished off the season bodes well for Manchester United and England.

"Anyone would want a player of Cristiano Ronaldo's calibre in their team but I would certainly not view his departure as a backward step for Manchester United at all." (Source)

> Vote for the best players at bestplayerintheworld.com

The Real-ity Is That: Kaka And Ronaldo Transfers Will Pay For Themselves Within Two Years:



"A Weber Shandwick Sport report, which had recently claimed that Kaka alone is worth €70 million a year in revenue, has now revised their figures to include Ronaldo, and they believe the duo could generate as much as €124 million in merchandising and shirt sales, just under €40 million less than their combined transfer fee." (Source)

To Become The Best Player In The World in 2009:

> You Need To Play Futsal
> You Need To Be Able To Freestyle With The Best Of Them
> You Need To Be Able To Juggle And Chew Gum At The "Same Time"
> You Should Get Your Coaching In Spain Not England
> You Don't Need To Look Like The Best Player In The World
> You Need To Perfect Chipping The Keeper
> You Need The Help Of Your Teammates
> You Need Good Coaching
> You Need To Do Something Extra On Your Own
> You Need To Grow Up Working Class
> You Need To Be Reliable, On Time, Polite
> You Need To Always Have A Ball At Your Feet
> You Need To Run Away From Classrooms
> You Need To Grow Up In Barcelona's La Masia Youth Academy

When You Are The Best Player In The World:

> People Also Want You To Be A Great Person
> Younger Players Look Up To You
> Even You Must Play At High Altitude
> Everyone Wants More From You
> You Are The Best Player In The Gaming World Too
> People Sing Your Name
> You Can Be Five Feet Seven Inches Tall
> Everyone Wants To Be Like You
> You Are The Best Shoe Salesman In The World
> You Can Claim That Team Performance Is More Important Than Individual Achievement
> You Still Dream Of Winning The World Cup
> You Need To Be Humble And Keep Working Hard
> You Get To Celebrate On Double-Decker Buses

Blatter: Best Football Players A Better Investment For Public Than Best Art:

One of Football's Picasso's?:



"Ten years ago there was painting from Picasso's Blue Period was sold by Sothebys in London at that time for over £100m.

"And what happened to this painting by Picasso? They hid it somewhere so no-one could take it away. Nobody can see it.

"But a football player, you can see him once or twice a week, he is there, he is a star, he is being billed as a star. It is not the money he is getting, it's the money between the clubs.

"Okay, you might say it is too much, but you have to put it in context of what football in our society is worth and what other things in our society are worth." (Source)

Blatter Is Right: Football Market Can Afford To Pay Its Best Players Big Bucks:



"We are in a very sensitive market nowadays, because there is an economic crisis," he said. "But in football, if we are in a good market, it means that football is a good product, not just to buy or sell but a product that gives people what they want, which is emotions.

"This is the game of the people and they need stars. Okay, it is a lot of money, but he (Ronaldo) is performing." (Source)

> Vote At Bestplayerintheworld.com

Poll: Which Shirt Will Ronaldo Wear At Real Madrid?:



"Now that the Ronnie-to-Real guessing game is over, another crops up: What shirt will the Portuguese winger lift at the Bernabeu? The No.7 jersey he wore at Old Trafford is filled in Madrid by Raul, which explains why it can be backed at 4-1. The No.9 shirt is favourite at 11-10, with 23, the one modelled by David Beckham, at 10-1. The rest are just making up the numbers." (Source)

Great Video: Messi And Guardiola Sing A Victory Song:



> Vote for Messi at bestplayerintheworld.com

Who Is The Best Football Player In The World? Vote At Bestplayerintheworld.com:

Messi sits comfortably atop the bestplayerintheworld.com leaderboard at 8am Eastern Standard Time on Saturday June 13, 2009:

Lionel Messi 46% (863 votes)
Cristiano Ronaldo 23% (428 votes)
Steven Gerrard 7% (133 votes)
Andres Iniesta 4% (69 votes)
Fernando Torres 3% (55 votes)
Zlatan Ibrahimovic 2% (44 votes)
Kaka 2% (42 votes)
Frank Lampard 1% (28 votes)
Wayne Rooney 1% (26 votes)
Ronaldinho 1% (27 votes)
Andrei Arshavin 1% (21 votes)
Nemanja Vidic 1% (15 votes)
Franck Ribery 1% (12 votes)
Didier Drogba 1% (13 votes)
Xavi Hernandez 1% (11 votes)
Robinho 1% (12 votes)
Iker Casillas <1% (9 votes)
Cesc Fabregas 1% (10 votes)
Arjen Robben <1% (9 votes)
Samuel Eto'o <1% (9 votes)
Luka Modric 1% (10 votes)
Petr Cech <1% (6 votes)
David Villa <1% (6 votes)
Emmanuel Adebayor <1% (5 votes)
Gianluigi Buffon <1% (6 votes)
Sergio (Kun) Aguero <1% (4 votes)
Ashley Young <1% (5 votes)

Total Votes: 1878

> Vote for Lionel Messi or your best player at bestplayerintheworld.com

Friday, June 12, 2009

How Good Is Antonio Valencia? Is He Part Of The Answer For Post-Ronaldo-United?:

"Wigan Athletic chairman Dave Whelan has confirmed that Manchester United have made a series of bids for Ecuador winger Antonio Valencia and he expects another cash offer to arrive shortly.

United, who accepted a world-record £80m bid from Real Madrid for Cristiano Ronaldo on Thursday, are in the market for a replacement for the Bernabeu-bound World Player of the Year and Valencia is one of the names on their hit-list." (Source)

> We're tracking the best players at bestplayerintheworld.com

To Become The Best Player In The World: You Need To Be Able To Juggle And Chew Gum At The "Same Time":

Great video of the great Ibrahimovic: Watch the whole thing to believe it:



> Vote for Ibrahimovic or your own best player at bestplayerintheworld.com

Mourinho In State Of Denial: Truth Is: Ibrahimovic Will Leave Inter AND So Will His Manager:



Here's what Mourinho says:

"I continue to think that Ibrahimovic will be an Inter player," said Mourinho on the club's official website. "It's a conviction of mine. No-one has told me anything, it's just a feeling I have." (Source)

Here's what we think:

Mourinho is either in a deep state of denial or putting on a face for the media and Inter fans. Knowing Mourinho, it's the latter: not only will Ibra leave Italy but Mourinho himself will be soon gone and managing either in La Liga or the Premiership.

> Vote for your best player at bestplayerintheworld.com