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Rivaldo names the Barcelona duo as favorites for the Ballon d’Or: “I don’t see anyone ahead of them”

Barcelona has started 2025 in the best possible way with two victories in the King’s Cup and two in the Spanish Super Cup.

Now crowned champions of the Spanish Super Cup and having booked a place in the cup quarter-finals, they will be looking to make amends for their collapse in the league towards the end of last season.

Although the setback in La Liga cost them a lot in the standings, it is clear that Barcelona is still the best team in Spain and, by far, the team with the most powerful attack.

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Rivaldo’s thoughts.

Barcelona legend Rivaldo recently spoke to the media in an interview and expressed his opinion on a number of topics related to the club’s performance this season.

He began by praising Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, who have so far enjoyed impressive campaigns for the blaugrana.

“Right now I don’t see anyone ahead of Lamine and Raphinha in the race to win the Ballon d’Or.” he began, stating that the duo are the favorites to win the Ballon d’Or.

“Maybe if we look outside of Spain, Salah is a strong candidate for this season and Vinicius will always be there. “All this will depend a lot on Barcelona and winning collective titles, but both are having a great season.” he added.

Explaining why he chose the Barcelona stars as his favorites for the prestigious individual award, the Brazilian legend said:

“Yamal is showing great confidence in Barcelona and plays with a maturity far beyond his age.”

“Raphinha is also a strong candidate for the Ballon d’Or. Especially because of how he has been playing lately, scoring goals, giving assists and showing a lot of confidence on the field.” he added about his compatriot.

“He is playing with creativity and determination, which makes him an excellent candidate for the award.” concluded about Raphinha.

Contenders for the Ballon d’Or for 2025? (Photo by Alex Caparrós/Getty Images)

Rivaldo was then questioned about Ronald Araujo, who finally seems willing to stay at the club after the incessant rumors of his departure to Juventus.

“It is always important to keep great players and Araújo’s permanence will be a great benefit for Barcelona. The seasons are long, with many games, so having a strong group is essential.”

“Injuries and the need for rest of some players make having quality on the bench key to maintaining competitiveness” he added.

In the midst of his praise for Barcelona, ​​the club legend took a moment to point out that Real Madrid can never be ruled out and that a resurrection of the same should be expected.

“Conceding nine goals in two games is something that the fans, neither the players nor the coach, do not forgive. But Real Madrid is still alive in the League, Champions League and Cup.”

“If they had been bad in all the competitions, it would be different, but the team improved after a slow start to the season and will always fight for titles.” he added.

Finally, Rivaldo gave his verdict on Barcelona’s start to the season and how it was vital to maintain the level given the club’s slim margin for error.

“For Barcelona it is a fantastic start, but if their performance drops in La Liga or other competitions, criticism will also come.”

“Forming a team of this level means being prepared for moments of great pressure and constant criticism” he concluded.

Source: SPORT

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