Bayern Munich boss Pep Guardiola says Franck Ribery deserves to win the Ballon d'Or this year ahead of his former player Lionel Messi.
"We have been talking about this topic for a long time now," the 42-year-old told reporters on Saturday after Bayern Munich extended their run in the Bundesliga to 40 games with a 7-0 win over Werder Bremen.
"Franck had an incredible season last year. His career is incredible. This year Franck is one of the reasons why we are where we are.
"Obviously lots of other players too but especially Franck. Naturally, he deserves to win the title [Ballon d'Or], this personal title, but the most important thing is he is happy with his performances last year and what he is doing now.
"Whether he loses or not is not gonna change his life, his career or our opinion about him.
"He and his team last year with Jupp [Heynckes] won everything and obviously he deserves it. But the other players are amazing too. Lionel Messi, or Cristiano Ronaldo, or another player.
"But last season for him was, without a doubt, amazing."
Bayern sit top of the Bundesliga with 41 points from 15 games, four clear or Bayer Leverkusen.
