As the football world debates the frontrunners for the prestigious Ballon d’Or 2023, Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has thrown his weight behind his former protégé, Luis Suárez. The Uruguayan striker, now dazzling at Barcelona, is locked in a thrilling three-way battle with teammates Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo for the coveted award. Melbet dives deep into Rodgers’ compelling argument and what makes Suárez a standout candidate this year.
Why Luis Suárez Deserves the Ballon d’Or
Rodgers, who managed Suárez during their electrifying stint at Liverpool, believes the 36-year-old has outperformed even the legendary Messi over the past year. “If you’re talking about the Ballon d’Or and the last 12 months, I don’t think there’s been any player better than Luis Suárez,” Rodgers asserted.
Suárez’s numbers speak volumes: 59 goals in 53 appearances for Barcelona last season, coupled with his relentless work rate and ability to elevate his team in crucial moments. His synergy with Messi and Neymar—famously dubbed “MSN”—redefined attacking football, but Rodgers argues it’s Suárez’s individual brilliance that sets him apart.
Rodgers’ Unique Perspective
Having coached Suárez during his peak at Liverpool (2012-2014), Rodgers witnessed firsthand the striker’s “relentless hunger and technical mastery.” He recalled, “Luis carried Liverpool on his back during our title chase in 2014. His ability to score from impossible angles and his defensive pressing were unmatched.”
Image: Rodgers’ bond with Suárez at Liverpool gives him unique insight into the striker’s Ballon d’Or credentials.
While acknowledging Messi’s “magical” decade-long dominance, Rodgers emphasized Suárez’s consistency: “Lionel is a generational talent, but Luis has been the most complete forward this year—scoring, assisting, and leading by example.”
The Champions League Showdown
Rodgers’ comments come ahead of Celtic’s daunting Champions League clash against Barcelona. The Scottish champions, still reeling from a 7-0 thrashing in their last meeting, face an uphill task against Suárez and co.
The Verdict: A Three-Horse Race
The Ballon d’Or race remains fiercely contested:
- Suárez: Unplayable form, clutch performances.
- Messi: The eternal maestro, but slightly below his usual standards.
- Ronaldo: Age-defying, but team trophies eluded him this year.
Rodgers’ endorsement adds fuel to the debate, but as Melbet analysts note, the final decision may hinge on UEFA Champions League performances in the coming months.
Final Thoughts
Brendan Rodgers’ bold claim isn’t just nostalgia—it’s a tactical breakdown of why Suárez’s 2023 campaign merits football’s highest honor. Whether the Uruguayan clinches it or not, his legacy as one of the game’s fiercest competitors is secure.
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