Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo has been voted the UEFA Best Player in Europe for the first time, beating off competition from German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer and Dutch forward Arjen Robben, both of Bayern Munich.
CR7 had never claimed the accolade in its current guise before, although he did capture the 2008 Ballon d’Or back when it was awarded to the European Footballer of the Year.
“I’m really happy so I must say thanks to my teammates because without the team, individual awards would not be possible. I would like to also thank my family, my coaches and the journalists who voted for me”, a delighted Ronaldo stated at the gala ceremony following the Champions League draw.
Wearing a suit and a bow tie, the Portuguese ace went on to say that his brother would see to it that the trophy is put on display at his museum in his native Madeira.
