Real Madrid captain Raúl is sceptical about goalkeeper, Iker Casillas’ chances of winning the 2008 Ballon d’Or despite his candidacy gaining more and more support.The race for France Football magazine’s European Player of the Year (Golden Ball) is hotting up as the announcement for the shortlist draws nearer.
Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas, who had a stunning campaign last term to help his club retain the La Liga throne before guiding Spain to Euro 08 glory, continues to be one of the hot favourites to at least finish amongst the top three best players of the year.
In Spain’s own award ceremony organized by Marca this past Monday, in which Casillas took home the Trofeo Zamora as La Liga’s best goalkeeper of 2007/08, numerous influential figures from writers to coaches to politicians to former players – including Di Stéfano, Butragueño and Buyo – all came out to throw their support behind the 27 year old, stating that it is about time a non-outfield player pick up the accolade.
However, current club skipper Raúl is pessimistic that the judging panel will feel the same way as he believes history is not on his deputy captain’s side.
“I hope Iker can win it because he was one of the best in the Eurocopa and he helped us win the league, but it’s always more difficult for a goalkeeper because their merits are not recognized,” he said in an interview with a local Madrid newspaper.
“The will also be a lot of other great candidates such as Torres, Xavi and Villa. The Golden Ball will have a very distinct Spanish flavour this year but it is Cristiano Ronaldo who is the favourite,” added Raúl.
Indeed, Casillas will have his work cut out for him as only one goalkeeper has ever previously won the award, Russia’s Black Spider, Lev Yashin in 1963.
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