Luis Figo: Lionel Messi Is The Deserved Winner Of The Ballon D'Or

Former Barcelona and Real Madrid winger Luis Figo insists that awarding Lionel Messi the 2010 FIFA Ballon d’Or was the correct decision.

The legendary former Portuguese international offered his opinion on the Argentine, who collected the title for the second year in succession, finishing ahead of World Cup winners Xavi and Andres Iniesta.

Figo, who himself won the title in 2000, said of the ceremony: “This is an individual trophy and Messi is the best. He won despite the fact that both Xavi and Iniesta had done very well this year.

“I am not surprised that they elected Messi. I think that Xavi and Iniesta have deserved to win, but Messi is a player who is above everyone.”

Figo also discussed Jose Mourinho collecting the coach of the year accolade, saying: “Four or five years ago, nobody talked much about coaches. They are important, but not who puts the ball in the goal.

“Mourinho however encourages the group. Off the field he is very accessible and the players love him so much.”