Vincent Garcia, editor-in-chief of France Football and a key figure in the Ballon d'Or, gave an interview to TZ Germany, where he spoke about the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo for the first time. Since 2004 has not been among the nominees for this award. He said:

"Ronaldo's absence is not a topic of discussion among the committee. He did not shine at the World Cup and he played in a limited league [Saudi Arabia]. "He is still a great player."