Real Madrid defender Marcelo said he wanted team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo to win the Ballon d Or, but believes it is just a matter of time before Neymar takes out the coveted award.
Barcelona s Lionel Messi was awarded a record fifth Ballon d Or on Monday, finishing ahead of Ronaldo and Neymar as the best player in the world for 2015.
Ronaldo was the holder of the award after going back-to-back in 2013 and 2014 with Messi having won four in a row between 2009 and 2012.
Marcelo, who plays with Neymar in the Brazil national team, said it is just a case of when the 23-year-old wins the award.
I think Messi and Cristiano are in a level above the other players and now Neymar proved he s in their level, it s a matter of time for him to win his own Ballon d Or, he said.
But I would have liked to give the prize to Cristiano because I see him working hard every day. He was competing with two great players, Messi and Neymar.
Of course Barcelona s players wanted Neymar or Messi to win but I wanted Cristiano, because I see him working hard, he s my friend and I see his dedication daily.
