Brazil legend Rivaldo has tipped ‘astonishing’ Mohamed Salah to win the Ballon d’Or after the Egyptian was nominated in the 30-man list.
Mohamed Salah recently became the fastest Liverpool player to score 100 goals for the club, and it’s just one of the achievements he has had in his short span at the club so far. In his debut season, he scored 44 goals in all competitions as the Reds cruised to the Champions League Final.
The next term, he helped them win the competition beating Tottenham in the final, while also playing a pivotal role in ending a 30-year wait to win the Premier League title. In the eyes of the Merseysiders, he is already a legend, and winning the Ballon d’Or will only be the cherry on top of the cake after the Egyptian’s consistent displays in red.
While his future remains doubtful at Merseyside, the forward has sensationally started the season while scoring a ‘worldie’ against Manchester City last weekend. Even former Manchester United star Rio Ferdinand heaped praise on the Liverpool star, which is rare given the hostile rivalry between both sides.
Salah was also recently nominated among the initial 30-nominees for the Ballon d’Or. Also present are several other Premier League stars, including N’Golo Kante, Harry Kane and Jorginho, among others. While Salah might not have won any major honour with the club last season, his current form certainly prompts the award in his favour.
And, Brazil legend and former World Cup winner Rivaldo thinks the Egyptian should win the accolade when it’s announced. Calling Salah an ‘astonishing’ talent, Rivaldo mentioned the forward among one of the best players in world football. The Mirror posted the quotes from the legendary star as he tipped the Reds star for the Ballon d’Or.
Rivaldo said, “Liverpool’s Egyptian forward is producing a fantastic start of the season with impressive stats and a sensational goal against Manchester City last weekend.
“He’s one of the best players in the world right now because his astonishing numbers in terms of goals and assists are obtained in the Premier League and Champions League, two of the most difficult competitions on the planet. When you are so good in demanding conditions, then, of course, you are a top player who deserves to be among the contenders for the Ballon d’Or this season.”
While Salah has many more accomplished competitors for the accolade, it might come as a surprise if he wins this. For instance, Jorginho won the Champions League with Chelsea before lifting the Euros with Italy, and the midfielder might have a higher chance of lifting the Ballon d’Or prize.
