The Spain-based trio are the final three in the race to win the FIFA Ballon d’Or award on
January 7.
Barcelona superstar Messi is on track to beat Gerd Muller’s all-time record for the number
of goals in a calendar year.
He is currently on 82 and needs just four more to pass the 85 scored by the Germany and
Bayern Munich striker in 1972.
The Argie ace has already beaten the second-best record of 75 — set by Brazilian legend Pele
while playing for Santos in 1958.
His biggest rival is Ronaldo who despite trailing Messi in the goal-scoring stakes, was the
main man in Real Madrid’s Spanish title triumph.
The winger was Portugal's top scorer as they reached the semi-finals of Euro 2012 where
they were knocked out on penalties by eventual champions Spain.
The star of that historic Spanish victory was Barcelona midfielder Iniesta who was named
player of the tournament.
He may not have scoredin Poland and Ukraine but Iniesta’s influence on Vicente del
Bosque’s side was massive.
Iniesta has also played a key part in Barca’s best-ever start to a league season under new
boss Tito Vilanova.
FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke said: "It shows how strong football in Spain is.
"We have seen again what they did at the Euros and it will be interesting to see what
happens in the Confederations Cup."
There was also a Spanish theme to the FIFA World Coach of the Year award.
Spain boss Vicente Del Bosque was nominated for his role in guiding Spain to a successful
defence of their European crown.
Former Barca boss Pep Guardiola and current Real coach Jose Mourinho were also named on
the shortlist.
Source: Sun UK
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