Ballon d'Or shortlist.

The three man short list for the Ballon d'Or was released today.

Manuel Neuer, GK for Germany and FC Bayern Munich. Without the German #1, Bayern's defense starts to look a little sketchy and they probably don't do the domestic double last season. I don't think Germany lift the World Cup without his shot-stopping prowess either. In a tournament that showcased some outstanding keeping, I think Neuer was the best of the bunch in Brazil. If he wins, he'd be the first keeper since 1963 to claim the award. Bayern and Germany homerism aside, I think it'd be fantastic if Neuer wins...but I don't think it'll happen.

Cristiano Ronaldo, Forward for Portugal and Real Madrid. Ronaldo pretty much was the Portugal National Team this summer in Brazil. If they don't have him, I don't know that they would even qualify for the tournament. The embarrassment of riches in attack at Real Madrid makes it harder for Ronaldo's case IMO, but without the Portuguese national in the spotlight it does become a lot easier to shut down the others. If he wins, it'll be his third trophy.

Lionel Messi, Forward for Argentina and FC Barcelona. I don't think Argentina get to the World Cup Final without Messi. However, he was more or less invisible on the pitch during that glorious day (for Germany homers like me) in Brazil. His impact at Barcelona is diminishing somewhat as well, with the emergence of Neymar and the arrival from Liverpool of Hannibal Lecter, but he is still one of the best players of this generation. I don't think he'll win this time around.

So.....who do you think will take home the hardware this year?

*edited because I can't spell.