If it's not Messi or Ronaldo, who else deserves the Ballon d'or?

Ronaldo and Messi have been dominating the Ballon d’or for the last 9 years and it’s almost close to inevitable that they’ll be in the top three again this year and Ronaldo is the favourite to win the coveted prize but for a change, let’s consider that they’re not going to make it to top three. If that is the case, who else deserves to be in the top three to win the prestigious award.

There have been a lot of players who have given their blood, sweat and everything for their team. Some of them go unnoticed while some get the rightful recognition they deserve but to be the best in the world, it really takes a lot more than just skill. It’s about dedication, consistency and the will to risk everything.

Here is my pick.

     1.       Luis Suarez

For the past five seasons, this man has been banging goals and banging goals and banging goals. It’s what he does best and it’s what he has been doing and most certainly will continue to do. If it hadn’t been for his goals, Liverpool would not have finished 2^nd. He has won numerous accolades during his goal studded career. Everywhere he had played so far, Suarez had broken records and won awards. Also, his career reached a whole new level when he joined Barcelona. During the 2016-17 season, Suarez had scored 37 goals in all competition. Though Barca did not win the league title this time, his contributions have been quite essential.

     2.       Sergio Ramos

Who can argue the fact that Ramos is one of the top three defenders in the world? His skills as a defender, his leadership as a captain and his influence as a team player is second to none. He has all the qualities that one can hope for in a player and boy what a season he has had last term winning the La Liga and UEFA Champions League along with UEFA Super Cup and Supercopa. He has been a saviour for the team on many occasions. Who can forget his many last minute headers that had won Real Madrid the match? If there is a defender in the world who deserves a Ballon d’or, it’s Ramos.

     3.       Gianluigi Buffon

This towering Italian needs no additional introduction and the contribution that he has done to the team is immense. He just has every reason to win the Ballon d’or. He has contributed to his club and country in every way possible. The Ballon d’or is given to the player who has seen success in football and the one who have done outstanding service for his club and country. Who else deserves it more than Buffon?

If it’s not Messi or Ronaldo? Do you agree if these three finish in top 3?