Brazil legend Ronaldo has backed his namesakeCristiano Ronaldo to win the 2016 Ballon d'Or over La Liga rival Lionel Messi.
The Real Madrid superstar is the favourite to land the coveted award at the end of the year ahead of his Barcelona counterpart, following a scintillating 12 months for club and country.
His form over the past year has led to former Inter Milan, Barcelona and Real striker Ronaldo declaring that the ex-Manchester United player should see off competition from Messi and othersto win the glittering prize in December.
In an interview with Claro Sports, he said: "This year, if I have to choose, I'd pick Cristiano Ronaldo over Lionel Messi for the Ballon d'Or because of what he's won."
Ronaldo helped Real secure the Champions League after an intense final against city rivals Atletico back in May, before the Portugal forward captained his national side to their first ever international trophy as Fernando Santos' men won the Euro 2016 Championship in France.
The 31-year-old also bagged a mind-blowing 51 goals in all competitions for Real last season, and capped a wonderful year by penning a new five-year deal with Los Blancos on Monday, before stating his desire to carry on playing for another decade.
Of course, the Brazilian Ronaldo wonthree Ballon d'Or awards of his own in 1996, 1997 and 2002.
Stating his belief that the former Sporting Lisbon starlet should remain withReal for the rest of his career before going on to work at the club once he hangs up his boots, Ronaldo also commented on the striker's supposedrough patch in front of goal.
Cristiano has notched seven goals in 12 appearances so far this term, but has fallen someway short of his best form following a spell on the sidelines with a knee injury.
The 40-year-old Ronaldo added: "It'd be best if Cristiano Ronaldo retired at Real Madrid and then worked at the club. I don't think he's going through a tough spell (in front of goal)."
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