Sport
Neymar Says Ballon d’Or Made a Joke by Putting Raphinha in Fifth Place
Santos striker Neymar has openly criticized the Ballon d’Or organizers after Barcelona winger Raphinha was ranked fifth in the 2025 edition of the award.
The 33-year-old didn’t hide his frustration, branding the decision as nothing short of a joke. Neymar took to Instagram shortly after the ceremony on Monday night, writing that placing Raphinha in fifth place was “too much of a joke.”
The 2025 Ballon d’Or was claimed by Ousmane Dembele, who finished ahead of teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, with Vitinha and Mohamed Salah also ahead of Raphinha in the standings.
Neymar, however, believes his compatriot deserved more recognition. Raphinha was a standout performer for Barcelona last season, playing a vital role in their LaLiga and Copa del Rey triumphs. Across all competitions, the former Leeds United star registered 56 goal contributions in 57 matches, making him one of the club’s most influential players.
Head coach of Atletico Madrid, Diego Simeone, speaks on team defense and called out a player who needs to toughen up. He shared that Ademola Lookman needs to work on defense.
“Ademola Lookman arrived with great enthusiasm and desire to keep growing. We need him to add defensive work to what he already gives us offensively, because he has that ability,” he then added.
“He’s shown it with the Nigeria national team, and we need him in that role.”
Former football legend Paul Merson states that Mohammad Salah is the greatest winger of all time.
While also praising Bukayo Saka for being the winger in form right now.
When asked in a recent interview, he stated “For the best right now, it’s probably [Bukayo] Saka for his all-around game. I will go Salah, because the numbers he’s put up are ridiculous.”
Former player Paul Merson shares his predictions on this weekend’s Premier League games.
He shared Leeds United vs Manchester City – Prediction: Leeds 1-1 Manchester City.
Manchester United vs Crystal Palace – Prediction: Manchester United 3-0 Crystal Palace.
Arsenal vs Chelsea – Prediction: Arsenal 1-0 Chelsea.
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