Friday, 11 January 2013

News of the Day

18 Yard Box looks at today's headlines.

Today's top news are:


Robin van Persie made Barclays Player of the Month

BPL player of the month

It has been a dream season for Robin van Persie ever since his move to Manchester United and he was awarded the Barclays Player of the Month (December).The Dutch striker has been prolific infront of the goal finding the net 5 times in 6 games and has been instrumental in vital comeback performances this past month.Van Persie was overjoyed on being awarded the best player award and went on to say, ”It was a big month for us.You have certain periods during a season when it goes your way and December was one of those periods”.

Meanwhile,Tottenham Hotspurs manager, Andres Vilas Boas, has been awarded the Barclays Manager of the Month (December) award for leading Spurs to 3 wins and a draw in 6 games and put Tottenham in the 3rd spot.
  
Rooney ruled out, Nani,Anderson fit for encounter

He returns

Injuries have been plaguing Sir Alex Ferguson’s side for the past few weeks but fate seems to have smiled on Manchester United as Nani and Anderson, having missed 14 games and 8 games respectively due to injuries, have been declared match fit ahead of the highly-anticipated encounter. 

“Nani is back training and Anderson has been back for 10 days.They will be in the squad”, said Alex Ferguson in the media conference. He,however, played down Wayne Rooney’s inclusion in the team squad for the Liverpool game. ”Wayne is still out.He would start training today.He is not far away and should be available for the FA Cup replay against West Ham on Wednesday”, he added.

Hart aiming for gold at the Emirates

Hart aiming at 3 points

It has been 37 years since Manchester City last beat Arsenal away from home and Manchester City shot-stopper Joe Hart has hardly any reason to believe that this statistic might be a worrying factor. He has played down any sense of inferiority in the Manchester City camp.

”These records are made to be broken.We feel strongly that we can turn up anywhere and win”, he said. The 25-year old English international’s side has gone 7 points behind city rivals Manchester United who face Liverpool in an earlier encounter. and another loss would widen the margin and most likely put the title chase out of City’s reach.

Other headlines

1.Fabrio Coloccini wants to return to Argentina for personal reasons.

2.Blackburn to appoint Blackpool manager Michael Appleton.


3.Fergie plays down any possible transfer rumour.


4.Everton youngster Ross Barkley loaned to Leeds United.


5.Chelsea skipper John Terry returns from injury.

Written By,
Rishav Ghosh

Rishav is a writer for 18 Yard Box.


Follow Us on Twitter and Facebook

Any Suggestions? Write to us on 18yardbox06@gmail.com

Mid Season Review: Manchester United

18 Yard Box has a look at the Red Devils in this version of our mid season review.


This boxing day, as we saw United cross their half-way mark to the Premier League completion. What would in earlier seasons be routing victories over visitors have transformed to mere about ‘comebacks’ for the 19 time Premier League winners, all thanks to their strike force for which United have spent over  40 million pounds this summer. Watching a United game is not short of entertainment but analysing them they still look weak at certain places. Let us have a look at their title chances and then determine the players that might do the Red Devils good in the long term.

Title Chances

Will these scenes be witnessed this season?

With Sir Alex's men doing brilliant in attack, they lack conviction in defense. And if they do not sort out this problem soon then they might as well as lose the lead like they lost last year. Sir Alex wouldnt want a repeat telecast of last year's heartbreak and would want the title to come to the red side rather than the blue of Manchester.

7 points on top with 17 games still left, the title race is not truly over. But from here on, unitl something drastic happens, United will be the favourites to clinch a 20th title.

Woes

The back four need to click and click fast
United's woes come in their defence. Looking weak at the back, they have conceeded 28 goals this season and would be looking to block the inlet. Moreover the goalkeeping issue still conitnues to rumble on. United has had a history of fielding some of the world’s most famous goalkeepers in the form of Peter Schmeichel,  Fabien Barthez and Edwin Van Der Sar. David De Geaon the other hand doesn’t even feature in all of United’s games. Generally known for several weaknesses, David De Gea has still a long way to go before he can put his name alongside the previous legends.What was previously terrible handling of the ball has now become a more balanced one, though a club like Manchester United needs something still better. The most significant weakness still persisting in De Gea is the lack of confidence, which shows on the pitch. 

Rio Ferdinand, the center back, has been guilty of letting the attackers rip through the defense and get some goals home for their respective clubs. Jonny Evans has looked incredible but the returning Vidic looks a pale shadow of his former self. United needs to rectify this before its too late.


Tactical Overview

Sir Alex has used Rooney more centrally this year

Sir Alex Ferguson, for the past 25 seasons,has got his tactics spot-on and there is no questioning his football-brain. Mid-way through the season, Sir Alex has changed his formations in many matches trying to accommodate his new signings to the starting eleven. Even though the 4-4-1-1 is the traditional Manchester United type of formation (wing-approach, wing-backs coming forward to help the wingers and a good combination play), we have got to see the 4-3-3 diamond formation for quite a few Champions League matches. 

4-4-1-1 has paid dividends,RvP playing up-front with Kagawa/Rooney in the support-striker role. Carrick and Cleverley have really set themselves at the heart of midfield with Carrick playing a more deeper than Cleverley (A natural attacking minded midfielder) in the central midfield area. 4-3-3 diamond hasn’t been that much of an influence in the game-Centralised play with solidity in the middle of the park with the United wing backs creating not much of an influence.


18YB suggests

This section is dedicated to our writer's suggestion. The names may or may not be linked with the players mentioned as these are pure suggestions.

Kanhaiya has a look at which players would give the League leaders a further boost in the title race.

Cristiano Ronaldo

How much would the United fans pay to see his dribbling skills back at OT?

Ever since the time the Reds have been drawn against the La Liga title holders in the Champions League Round of 16, there has been news that the former United darling is considering a move to his former club. SAF is reportedly willing to place a bid of 60 million pounds. The clause also includes a weekly salary of 300,000 pounds.

The agile craftsman does not need any introduction and would really solve United's wing problems. Moreover the combination of Ronaldo, Rooney and Van Persie linking seems too tempting.

Frank Lamapard

Will he be wearing the Red of Manchester?

Chelsea ace Frankie has been considered as a potential United transfer to plug all their loopholes in the center of the field. Since there hasn’t been any contract extension for Lampard, the move might bolster United’s chances and seal them a cup or two.

Paul Schole's retirement at the end of the season may see a big gap appearing in the midfield. Sir Alex, known for using experienced players, might find an able replacement in Lampard. United might get Lampard for a cut price considering Chelsea are looking to get rid of the English midfielder by summer.


Mats Hummels

He would be of great help


One of Manchester United's primary problems this season has been their defending and Mats Hummels might be the solution to the problems. The tall and talismanic German international has risen through the ranks of top German defenders and has been the rock at the back of Dortmund’s defence. The addition of Hummels to the side would mean stability at the back and with Rio ageing, United will be looking for fresh legs to compliment Evans. 

 

 


Written By,
Kanhaiya Maheswary

Kanhaiya is a writer for 18 Yard Box.



Follow Us on Twitter and Facebook

Any Suggestions? Write to us on 18yardbox06@gmail.com

Thursday, 10 January 2013

News of the day

18 Yard Box has a look at today's news of the day

Another day has gone by but news never stop. Here are some of the interesting ones. Take a look.


Johnny Evans hails United team spirit


"We differ from the others because we are a collective unit and not a set of individuals", said the center back who has had a stellar come back from injury He insists that even though certain individual brilliance has helped a lot, the team as a whole has benefited by playing together as a unit. Alex Ferguson believes Evans could be the future captain at United and if thats the case, Johnny is making all the right news.

 Leon Britton savors the win over Chelsea




10 years it has been since Britton has been at Swansea, a period over which he oversaw them avoid relegation from league 2 to the dizzy heights of winning at Stamford Bridge yesterday.The midfielder insisted that only half the job was done but with the new found confidence, Michael Laudrup and his men look favorites to play in the Capitol One Cup finals at Wembley next month. 2 glaring errors by the normally reliable Ivanovic ensured that the Swans have one foot in the door for the finals.

AVB plays down Damiao link


"Its very unlikely", said the Spurs boss when asked if the Brazilian could well be on his way to White Hart Lane. A long time admirer of the striker, AVB could well be hiding the intent as its pretty obvious that he needs a striker with Adebayor having a change of heart and deciding to go to play the African nations cup.

Other headlines

1. Barry hopes to break Arsenal hoodoo of 37 years

2. Rodgers want local talent at Liverpool.

3. Ramos handed 5 game ban.

4. M'Vila will leave: Rennes

5. Real Madrid have a lot to play for: Ronaldo

Written By,
Vinay Prabhakar

Vinay is a writer for 18 Yard Box.



Follow Us on Twitter and Facebook

Any Suggestions? Write to us on 18yardbox06@gmail.com


Tuesday, 8 January 2013

News of the Day

18 Yard Box has a look at the news doing the rounds today.

Its the time that the best football player of the year was announced. Take a look to find out who it is.


4th time coming

4th in a row

Lionel Messi was announced as the Ballon d'Or winner yesterday in the awards held by FIFA. Messi, aged 25, grabbed his 4th consecutive Ballon d'Or there by breaking Michel Platini's record of 3 trophies.

The most prized asset for a footballer, the Ballon d'Or, was to be decided between Cristiano Ronaldo, Andres Iniesta and the little Argentine.

Messi was voted highest with a total 41.60% followed by Crisitano Ronaldo who got 23.68% and finally Iniesta who got 10.91%


Barca not up for selling Villa: Rosell

Not for sale

Barcelona president Sandro Rosell said that the club will not sell David Villa to any club in January.
Villa, 31, has been a prime target for Arsenal this season but the Barcelona chief aid that the club were not interested.


"I absolutely reject the notion that David Villa could leave Barcelona this winter," Rosell was quoted as saying by Sport.

"David is one of our players and we need him in the second half of the season."


Ramsey unhappy: Hartson

Is the Welshman off for a loan?

The former Gunner has claimed that Aaron Ramsey does not look happy at Arsenal.

The Welsh captain, who has recently signed a new five year deal with the Gunners, has not been involved in the starting 11 quite often.  Hartson said that a loan deal would help the Welshman.

He said, "I just think he [Ramsey] needs that run of games," the former Celtic player told BBC Sport.

"Maybe if he did go out on loan [he'd get that], because he doesn't seem to start many games at Arsenal now and when he does start he's brought off and he doesn't look happy." 

"I'm sure Arsene Wenger knows he's a top-drawer player, because he wouldn't have given him a new deal otherwise."

Other Headines

1. Stoch wins FIFA Puskas award

2. Wambach bags Women's player of the year

3. Dortmund have a birght future: Subotic

4. Mancini concerned for Rodwell

5.  Spurs to make official €18m Damiao bid- Goal.com

Written By,
Rishabh Ghai


Rishabh is a writer for Goal.com India, International (all English editions) and an Editor and writer for 18 Yard Box .

Follow Rishabh Ghai on Twitter


Follow Us on Twitter and Facebook

Any Suggestions? Write to us on 18yardbox06@gmail.com

Mid Season Review: Liverpool

18 Yard Box has a look at the Reds' season so far and analyse their chances of finishing in the top four.


Can Reds do it this season?

The Reds of the Mersyside were the most dominant team of the 70s and 80s in UK but the premier league advent hasnt been kind to them for the once mighty reds have faded into a mid table team. The season has seen them look to Brendan Rodgers to turn the corner and become the dominant force again, How far have they come? 18 Yard Box takes a look.

Top 4 chances

8th in the league but only 8 points away from the 3rd place, Liverpool have managed to turn the corner from a fairly innocuous start. The youth revolution that Rodgers seems to have installed at the team has settled in with the bright lights being the likes of Rahem Sterling, Suso, Shelvey to name a few. Add to the youngsters, the brilliance of Suarez (arguably the best striker in the league at the moment), the reassurance of Gerrard, the wing play of Enrique (injured though at the moment), Liverpool have managed to get the team combination as well as the belief back. The first half may have been more of a stop start campaign but in the second half, with the right reinforcements, Liverpool may just be the late yet genuine contenders for a top 4 finish.

Woes

Reina has to pull his act together

Goalkeeping continues to be a concern. Pepe Reina is a pale shadow of his former self and without an assured keeper between the sticks, Liverpool are hanging on for dear life at times.

If Reina has been average, the same can be said of the Liverpool defense. Good on days and poor on more days than one, the back 4 is again left clutching straws when pushed to a corner. Liverpool also seem to be unsure on their mid field formation or who to support Suarez. The big games seem to be more of a one man show- Suarez whereas the rest of the team appear to be in hiding, How long can Luis carry the team on his shoulders?

Where the Liverpool supporters have hailed Suarez's contribution, one has turned a blind eye towards his selfish nature. Going for goals and not spotting other players at better positions, is Suarez's only mistake. There have been ocassions when he had the opportunity to squre the ball to Sterling to finish off the game but he hasnt used it. Preferring to go for goal himself at most times, he has wasted innumerable amount of chances that may have killed the game.

Tactical Overview


Talking tactics
Brendan Rodgers has been spot on with the tactics he has emplyed at Anfield. Infusing young blood, he has tried to create a team for the furture with Suarez as the fulcrum. Keeping the experience of Gerrard and Carragher in the team, he has ensured that Liverpool never lack experience.

Another credit which must be given to Rodgers is the emergence of Jordan Henderson and Stewart Downing. Both players, who were criticised of being not upto the mark, have risen and have been consistent performers for Liverpool this season. Brendan Rodger's tactics of deploying Downing on the right in certain games has been spot on. He has also been playing Jose Enrique as a left wing back at times which has been a treat to watch as Enrique is excellent going forwards.

There are ocassions when these tactics have backfired but he has brought a freshness to the Liverpool side which had been missing since the departure of Benitez. His 4-2-3-1 with Allen at the hub of the proceedings seems to be doing a fantastic job as Liverpool have looked mencaing going forward.

The only place that Liverpool lack is the defense. Although having world class defenders, Liverpool have lacked the awareness in defense. Conceding goals to lower teams has caused the confidence of the back 4 to go low. However, with the recent clean sheets in the League, this problem looks as if it has been sorted.

18YB Suggests


With Sturridge signed, Liverpool may feel they have a wide right/ forward who can play with Suarez or can play on his own when the need be but that remains to be seen as Sturridge is still not the finished product. Here are some suggestions which 18 Yard Box would like to make which would improve the Liverpool squad.

(These players need not be linked with the club and are purely suggestions)


Theo Walcott

Will he be a Red soon?

If fit, Andy Carroll should be called back at the earliest but at the moment he is not. Liverpool need a target man who can feed Suarez/Sturridge and when need be, score as well. Theo Walcott might be an answer to the problem.

Excellent pace and decent on the ball, Walcott has not signed a new contract with Arsenal. This situation has been closely monitored by the Liverpool boss as the 23 year old has been in fantastic form for the Gunners. Scoring a hat-trick against Newcastle United playing as the central striker, Walcott has shown that he can be more than just a unidimensional winger.

Ricardo Kaka

Kaka maybe a good addition

Nuri Sahin was supposed to be the answer to that hole in the mid field but he is lost in transition. With Rodgers being a close pal of Jose, can he raid Real again and get a player who can come and provide the spark that is desperately needed, Kaka could be the answer if not there is a certain Mesut Ozil who apparently is not happy at Madrid ( both have huge weekly wages though) It can sound preposterous but stranger things have happened in football.

Kaka, who has had trouble finding is feet in the Madrid side might be tempted for a move to the Premier League. This might be his opportunity and we think that Liverpool should go for the experienced forward.

Simon Mignolet

Liverpool need a keeper like him

Reina on his last legs and Liverpool need a strong GK. Doni either needs to step up Liverpool may just need to look at the premier league teams for a possible answer. Sunderland goal keeper Simon Mignolet could well be the answer.

Excellent shot stopping skills and brilliant kicking ability has won Mignolet recognition. With many clubs hovering around him for his signature, Liverpool might have competition. But a keeper of Mignolet's calibre is just what Liverpool need.

Will Liverpool finish in the top 4 or will they take another year to reach there? This remains to be seen as the place for the top 4 heats up.

Written By,
Vinay Prabhakar and Rishabh Ghai

Vinay is a writer for 18 Yard Box

Rishabh is a writer for Goal.com India, International (all English editions) and an Editor and writer for 18 Yard Box .

Follow Rishabh Ghai on Twitter


Follow Us on Twitter and Facebook

Any Suggestions? Write to us on 18yardbox06@gmail.com

Monday, 7 January 2013

News of the Day

18 Yard Box has look at the news which made the headlines today.

Every day a fascinating story storms the footballing world. Today its a story which involves a crucial 'hand'. Have a look.


Mansfield dealt with a harsh ‘hand’ 

Hand of Luis

Daniel Sturridge scored on his Red’s debut against non-league club Mansfield in the FA Cup, even as an all-important second goal by Luis Suarez became a controversial winner for Liverpool.

The television replays showed that Alan Marriott’s block off Suarez’s left-footed shot rebounded off the Uruguayan’s goal before crossing the goal-line.

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers defended the striker. “It's not his job to do that. The ball hit him, and it is the job of the referee to determine whether it was deliberate or not.” He also hinted that his star striker was being targeted because of his reputation. “If it was someone else we wouldn't be discussing it to this detail, but sometimes these sorts of things will follow players.”

Daniel Sturridge meanwhile bemoaned a lack of sharpness and training. “I am lacking sharpness in front of goal. I missed a few chances but hopefully once I get my fitness those ones that I missed will go in.” He also praised team-mate Jonjo Shelvey for the assist saying, “It was a great pass from Jonjo - the vision and the weight of the pass for the goal was perfect. He made it quite easy for me to take the shot first time.”

Napoli President hopes to turn tables on EPL Champs

Mind games on

Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis has admitted that Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli, is a transfer target for the Italian club, as a partner to star Edinson Cavani. Manchester City have targeted the Uruguayan striker for long, amid rumours that Napoli had rejected £45 million bid for him.

Balotelli has had a fair share of problems at the Etihad, particularly pertaining to discipline, with the team management. “City are considering letting Balotelli go so they can move for Cavani? I would prefer to see Balotelli playing with Cavani here at Napoli”, Laurentiis said.

Borussia duo extend deals

The two extend their stay with Dortmund

Borussia Dortmund duo Neven Subotic and Sven Bender have committed themselves to the defending Bundesliga Champions by signing contract extensions.

Subotic’s contract now runs until 2016, a 2-year extension, while Bender will stay at the club till 2017. "We are delighted to have been able to tie down these two key members of our title-winning team," said the club's director of sport Michael Zorc. "I am very pleased that the lads want to carry along the path we are going," manager Jurgen Klopp said.

Mario Gotze, Mats Hummels, Jakub Blaszczykowski and Lukasz Piszczek  have all recently signed new deals with the clubs.

Other Headlines:

1. No new Chelsea deal for Lampard, his agent confirms.

2. Sunderland strike deal with N’’ Diaye of Turkish club Bursaspor.

3. Liga leaders Barcelona win, extending lead over Atletico Madrid who draw.

4. Berlusconi at loggerheads with Blatter over Boateng issue; FIFA prez wants players to continue playing.

5. I can help Balotelli from my experiences, says Tevez.

Written By,
Abhishek Karandikar

Abhishek is a writer for 18 Yard Box.


Follow Us on Twitter and Facebook

Any Suggestions? Write to us on 18yardbox06@gmail.com

Sunday, 6 January 2013

The fight for the Ballon d'Or- A statistical view of the three finalists

18 Yard Box has a final look at the three finalists for the Ballon d'Or as the date for the much anticipated announcement edges closer.


And Ballon d'Or 2012 is- who will it be?
FIFA’s initiative to award the best football player of the year with one of the most prestigious award, the FIFA Ballon d’Or, has been a really appreciative gesture and hence every year we find football players playing their level best to have a shot at the award. 

Previously known as FIFA World Player of the Year Award, many world-class footballers like Zinedene Zidane, Ronaldinho, Rivaldo have been awarded this title and it will be an honour for youngsters to get their names written on the history books alongside such huge names.

2012 was a year of brilliance in world football. Top class football from all around the globe, records made and then broken, and all credit goes to the top 3 shortlisted football players of the Year-Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Andres Iniesta. Not only are they a class apart, these footballers are the ambassadors of this beautiful game and their performance of the top level has spurred many to look upto them as role models.

18 Yard Box analyses the Ballon d’Or nominees and why these players are the greatest assets to World Football.

Andres Iniesta

Can he bag it? 
The 26-year old Spanish international and Barcelona’s main-stay has been phenomenal this past season with both, club and country. Andres Iniesta, known for his nimble feet, crisp passing, graceful dribbling and play-making abilities, was voted the Player of the UEFA Euro 2012. His partnership with Xavi at the heart of Barcelona and Spain midfield has been arguably the best combination seen in generations. Andres Iniesta, the most complete player of Spain, is known for his willingness to work throughout the game and giving his best through the course of 90 minutes. 

He has been Barcelona's middle man and almost all goals flow through him. His dribbling skills are a treat to watch as he has the ability to leave the defenders in their wake. Having won a plethora of trophies for Barcelona, he was instrumental in Spain winning the Euro 2012. This feat makes him one of the strong contenders to bag this award. Here are some of the statistics of the midfield maestro in the past season for both club and country.


Stats-Zone 
Games Started
49
Games subbed in
10
Goals scored
9
Assists
11
Shots/ On goal
79/24
Fouls Committed
29
Fouls suffered
94
Yellow Cards
6
Red Cards
0


Achievements:

1. Copa del Rey 2012
2. Euro 2012
3. UEFA Player of the Year 2012

Having already won the UEFA European Player of the Year 2012 beating the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, Iniesta sure has his sights set on winning the Ballon d’Or for the first time.

Lionel Messi

A 4th time coming? Possibly

Lionel Messi, the name that echoes through the entire football world, the name that sends shivers through  opposition defence, the prodigal boy from Argentina has been nominated the record 6th time in 6 consecutive years. He has won this award 3 times in the past 3 years and is unquestionably the favourite to bag it for the 4th time. 

Undoubtedly the best player in the world at this moment, Messi is responsible for improving footballing standards all across the globe. A role model for youngsters, 25-year old Messi has been scoring and assisting  goals  almost every game. His exquisite ball-control, dribbling, finishing qualities are second to none and his runs from midfield are lethal. 

Breaking records time and again, he surpassed Cesar Roriguez’s record of 232 goals in March 2012 and became the all-time top scoring player of Barcelona. Add to this he also broke the miraculous feat (a tally of 88 goals in a calendar year) achieved by Gerd Muller in his playing days. Here are Lionel Messi’s contributions to club and country which makes him a strong candidate for the Ballon d'Or award.

Stats-Zone 
Games Started
70
Games subbed in
3
Goals scored
77
Assists
27
Shots/ On goal
304/158
Fouls Committed
53
Fouls suffered
150
Yellow Cards
9
Red Cards
0


Achievements:

1. Spanish Super Cup 2011.
2. Golden Boot winner- La Liga 2011/12.
3. Copa del Rey 2012.
4. Most number of goals in a calendar year (2012)- 91 goals


Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo - Real Madrid CF v Real Sociedad de Futbol  - Liga BBVA
Will this time be his time?

There was Luis Figo. Now, there is Cristiano Ronaldo. The legacy of Portugese football continues as Cristiano Ronaldo gets yet another shot at being the world’s best football player. 

Already crowned the best player in 2008 for his phenomenal performance with Manchester United, he has stepped up his game at Real Madrid to compete with the likes of Lionel Messi for the crown. The 27-year old talismanic winger, with searing pace and class dribbling qualities, is someone the opposition defence would not want to face. 

Tearing down defence, taking shots and scoring at will, Ronaldo is one of the most lethal two-footed player a team would dream to have. Having stayed in the shadow of Lionel Messi for the past few years, Ronaldo played  a major role for Real Madrid to win the La Liga beating Barcelona to the crown by 9 points. He almost single-handedly led Portugal to the Euro 2012 semi-finals where they lost to Spain in the penalty-shootout. Here are some of his personal endeavours in the past season with club and country


Stats-Zone 
Games Started
64
Games subbed in
3
Goals scored
71
Assists
16
Shots/ On goal
400/158
Fouls Committed
45
Fouls suffered
135
Yellow Cards
9
Red Cards
0




Achievements:

1. Most number of hat-tricks in La Liga 2011/12 season.
2. La Liga 2011/12
3. Euro 2012 Semi finalist
4. Joint top scorer in Euro 2012.
5. First Real Madrid player to score 40+ goals in a season.

Having lost out on the European Player of the Year 2012 title, Cristiano Ronaldo would be hoping that the votes tilt his way for the Ballon d’Or.

A day remains till this award is announced. Would Messi extend his winning streak to 4th title in consecutive years ? Would Iniesta win his first ever Ballon d’Or ? Would Ronaldo finally eclipse Messi ? Well, it’s just a matter of time before we know.

Written by,
Rishav Ghosh

Rishav is a writer for 18 Yard Box.

Also read: Why Cristiano Ronaldo deserves to be the Ballon d'Or? Our most read article. 

Follow Us on Twitter and Facebook

Any Suggestions? Write to us on 18yardbox06@gmail.com