'There is no criteria'- Spain's World Cup-winning skipper Iker Casillas takes a dig at the Ballon d'Or awards

The recent Ballon d'Or award has sparked controversial discussions within the football community. Rather than the anticipated selections of Real Madrid stars Vinícius Júnior or Jude Bellingham, the recognition of Rodri, the Manchester City midfielder, as the world's best came as a surprise to many and has prompted a range of responses.

Iker Casillas take on Ballon d'Or 

Among those expressing their views is Iker Casillas, the legendary goalkeeper of Real Madrid and the Spanish national team. Casillas voiced his perspective on the award, suggesting that it might not align with expectations of fairness and consistency. He emphasized that if a Spaniard were to be honoured, Dani Carvajal would be a more fitting choice.

"That doesn't make any sense to me, If you have to give it to a Spaniard, in any case, it should go to Carvajal. Rodri has been injured for a month and a half. For me, it's an absurd prize. There's no criteria; I don't know who the hell selects them or who votes." he said.

Casillas expressed his thoughts clearly regarding the selection of Rodri as the best in the world. He pointed out that, despite the Manchester City midfielder being sidelined for a month and a half, it’s surprising that transparency was lacking in the selection process. 

His concerns resonate with many fans and experts who feel that the criteria used for such awards may not accurately reflect player performances. "I don't care if later on they explain who votes, whether it's captains, national team coaches, or the President of Malaysia," Casillas concluded. 

Casillas made a compelling point, not just regarding Rodri's situation, but also highlighting a significant gap in recognition for Spanish players. Between 2008 and 2012, a time when Spain clinched a World Cup and two European Championships, it is astounding that no Spanish player received the Ballon d'Or. "There's no criteria; nothing shows what it's based on. I also don't understand how between 2008 and 2012 no Spanish player won the Ballon d'Or, even when we won the World Cup," Casillas commented.