The Ballon d’Ors That Never Were: Ribéry, Neuer, Neymar, Griezmann and the Forgotten Stars of the Messi-Ronaldo Era

For over a decade, the Ballon d’Or was dominated by two names: Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Their legendary rivalry pushed the boundaries of football greatness — but also overshadowed a generation of exceptional players who had seasons worthy of the ultimate individual honor.

This article revisits some of the most deserving stars who could have claimed the Ballon d’Or… if not for the unstoppable reign of the GOAT duo.

2013 — Franck Ribéry, the architect of the treble

The 2012–2013 season marked the peak of Franck Ribéry’s career. As a key figure in an unstoppable Bayern Munich side, the French winger impressed with his pace, dribbling, and playmaking abilities.

That year, Bayern completed a historic treble — winning the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, and Champions League, defeating Borussia Dortmund in the final at Wembley. Ribéry was instrumental throughout the campaign, contributing crucial assists and goals, and playing a leading role in the team’s success.

Many critics considered it the most complete season of his career, but despite the accolades, the Ballon d’Or went to Cristiano Ronaldo — a decision still debated today.

2014 — Manuel Neuer, the goalkeeper who changed the game

Few goalkeepers have redefined their position like Manuel Neuer. In 2014, he elevated the role of the “sweeper keeper” to new heights — anticipating plays, commanding his area, and initiating attacks with pinpoint accuracy.

With Bayern Munich, he lifted the Bundesliga, the DFB-Pokal, and the UEFA Super Cup. But his crowning achievement came with Germany’s World Cup victory in Brazil. Neuer was phenomenal throughout the tournament and earned the Golden Glove as best goalkeeper.

Despite his historic year, Neuer finished third in the Ballon d’Or voting, behind Messi and Ronaldo. His omission remains one of the most contested in recent memory.

2015 — Neymar, the Brazilian gem at his peak

In the 2014–2015 season, Neymar reached a new level. Alongside Messi and Suárez, he formed the lethal MSN trio, leading Barcelona to a treble of La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Champions League — plus the Spanish Super Cup.

Neymar’s individual performance was electrifying: dazzling dribbles, quick decision-making, and decisive goals in high-pressure matches. He wasn’t just a flashy forward; he was a clutch performer with world-class maturity.

While Messi claimed the award that year, Neymar had a campaign that — under different circumstances — might have earned him football’s top individual prize.

2016 — Antoine Griezmann, the rise of a superstar

In 2015–2016, Griezmann emerged as a global star. He scored 32 goals in 54 matches for Atlético Madrid, leading them to the Champions League final, and was a key figure for France in Euro 2016.

Griezmann was the top scorer of the tournament with six goals and was named the best player of the Euros. His speed, technical ability, and versatility made him one of the most dangerous forwards in the world.

Despite his impact, the Ballon d’Or eluded him once again, and he had to settle for a place in the FIFA FIFPro World XI.

2017 — Neymar (again), the hero of the impossible comeback

Though Barcelona had a mixed season collectively in 2016–2017, Neymar still delivered standout moments. He recorded 20 goals and 19 assists in 49 matches, remaining a decisive force in major games.

His most iconic performance came in the Champions League round of 16 against PSG, where he led Barcelona’s legendary 6–1 comeback with two goals and a crucial assist. On the international stage, he continued to shine for Brazil during World Cup qualifying.

Once again, Neymar’s individual brilliance wasn’t enough to secure the Ballon d’Or, but his influence on the pitch remained undeniable.

2018 — Luka Modrić, the one who finally broke the cycle

In 2018, Luka Modrić did what no one had managed in a decade — he broke the Messi-Ronaldo monopoly.

The Croatian midfielder guided Real Madrid to another Champions League title and then led Croatia to the World Cup final in Russia, earning the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player.

His elegance, vision, and leadership defined both club and country performances that year. Modrić deservedly claimed the Ballon d’Or, proving that midfield maestros can still be recognized in a forward-driven world.

Final thoughts

The Ballon d’Or has never been a perfect measurement of greatness. In the Messi-Ronaldo era, consistency and celebrity often outweighed single-season brilliance. But players like Ribéry, Neuer, Neymar, and Griezmann deserve to be remembered for their once-in-a-lifetime campaigns.

They may not have lifted the golden trophy — but their seasons live on in the memory of fans who value excellence, impact, and artistry on the pitch.