A legend of the game has spoken, Brazilian legend Cafu — and his words could stir up the Ballon d’Or debate.
Cafu, the iconic Brazilian right-back and two-time World Cup winner, has thrown his support behind Liverpool star Mohamed Salah.
The Egyptian forward has been in red-hot form this season, yet some still question if it’s enough for football’s top individual prize.
While the Ballon d’Or often leans toward players who shine in European competitions, Cafu believes Salah deserves far more credit for his consistent brilliance at club level.
The timing of his comments, just as the award race heats up, could spark fresh conversations.
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What Brazilian legend Cafu said about Mohamed Salah?
Mohamed Salah’s numbers this season are hard to ignore. He’s scored 27 goals and assisted 18 more in the Premier League alone.
Across all competitions, he’s been involved in 54 goals. These aren’t just good numbers — they’re elite. Still, critics point to Liverpool’s early Champions League exit as a dent in his case.
On the other hand, Barcelona’s Raphinha has emerged as a strong contender, thanks to his Champions League heroics.
He’s delivered big moments when it mattered, which often weighs heavily with voters.
But Cafu isn’t looking at trophies alone.
“We can certainly consider Mohamed Salah one of the best and greatest players in the world right now,” Cafu told Win Win Sports.
“He is shining and performing brilliantly for Liverpool. I think it’s only a matter of time until Mohamed Salah or Vinicius Junior wins the Ballon d’Or.”
Cafu added that consistent hard work and strong performances are the best response to doubters.
“My advice to them is to keep training, scoring goals, and shining. This is the best way to respond to criticism and prove that they truly deserve the Ballon d’Or.”
So, will Salah break the Ballon d’Or pattern and bag the golden ball without European silverware? As Cafu might say, never count out a Pharaoh when he’s in full flow.
Brazilian great Cafu says Salah deserves top recognition. Could this be the year the Egyptian King rules the Ballon d’Or?
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