Cristiano Ronaldo was not given a single vote in the 2022 Ballon d’Or

This year, Cristiano Ronaldo finished 20th in the Ballon d’Or rankings following his season with Manchester United in 21/22. And according to French newspaper L’equipe that leaked the information, the Portuguese striker didn’t get a single vote to win the award. 

Considering the legacy that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has had, this would have been unthinkable a few years ago. However, it is a harsh reality that needs to be accepted, especially keeping in mind that last year’s winner, Lionel Messi, was not even in the top 30. 

Cristiano Ronaldo’s second spell at Manchester United has gone wrong 

While the 37-year-old was the top scorer for Manchester United last season, he has been relegated to a limited role this year. The arrival of Erik Ten Hag and the promotion of younger talent has been one of the main reasons behind this. 

Cristiano Ronaldo was in the headlines again recently, with him storming out of Old Trafford during the game against Tottenham after he refused to come on as a substitute.

This season has arguably been the most difficult one in the striker’s career, with his outbursts of frustration becoming increasingly common. Though he was left out of the squad to face Chelsea, he will be a part of the team in the future according to Erik Ten Hag. 

However, the chances of him returning to the levels that he has set for himself seem miniscule at this point.