The world football governing body has announced the final three candidates for the prestigious individual award, while the Coach of the Year nominees were also revealed.
Barcelona's Lionel Messi and Xavi and Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo have been nominated as the finalist for the Ballon d' Or Award 2011. Lionel Messi was crowned with this award in 2010 as well as in 2009. Real Madrid attacker Cristiano Ronaldo, who won the Ballon d'Or in 2008, is also still in the race to win the trophy for a second time. The third remaining candidate is Spain international and Barcelona midfielder Xavi, who finished third in both 2009 and 2010. Messi is also one of the three remaining candidates to win the Puskas award for his goal in the Champions League against Arsenal, while Manchester United's Wayne Rooney (winning goal against Manchester City) and Santos forward Neymar (strike versus Flamengo) have also made the final three.
The three candidates for the title of Coach of the Season were also announced at the gathering at France Football's headquarters, with Barcelona's Pep Guardiola, Manchester United's Sir Alex Ferguson and Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho. Jose Mourinho recieved the title last year.
GeoSuper