Is there much point in anyone else turning up for the FIFA Ballon d’Or later in the year? Last season Messi won the award with over 22% of the votes cast by international coaches and captains despite being overshadowed on the international stage by the Spanish. This year so far he has been untouchable. His 50th (FIFTIETH) goal of the season came on the 23 April against CA Osasuna, and a few days later he followed that up with two goals against Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-final, one of them a stunning solo effort. Then came his effort in the Champions League final against Manchester United to almost guarantee the award. Many commentators simply refer to him as the greatest player of all time.
His influence on the game has inspired millions and now a range of sporting goods is carrying his name and vision into the 21st century. Pelé Sports is based on the great man’s vision, philosophy and ideals. The brand is designed to help the performance of the player – designed with football in mind and not just about a label.
Simply visit Pelé Sports by 5pm BST on Friday 10th June 2011 and pick a product you like from the Pelada or Pelé Story collections. Then send a tweet to @theballisround AND @pelesports saying what the product is and why you want it. A real challenge to get it in 140 characters I know but I also know you can be creative. Two winners will be picked at random at 5.30pm (BST) on Friday from the responses we get.