Lionel Messi has revealed how it was a "shame" Sadio Mane did not finish higher than fourth in the Ballon d'Or rankings.
The Liverpool forward has enjoyed a fine 12 months for the club, playing a vital role in last season's Champions League triumph and helping his side to a club-record 31 game unbeaten in the Premier League.
But despite Mane, and Virgil van Dijk’s heroics throughout the calendar year, it was Messi who claimed the prestigious award in Paris on Monday night, collecting the iconic trophy for a record-breaking sixth time.
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And the Barcelona star, who voted for Mane in FIFA's Best award this year, believes the forward was unlucky not to secure a place in the top three after his stellar 12 months.
"It's a shame to see Mane finish in fourth place," the Argentine told French broadcaster Canal+ after the ceremony.
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"But I think there have been a lot of great players this year. That's why it was difficult to choose a particular player. But I chose Sadio Mane because he's a player that I like.
"Mane achieved a great year that was exceptional for the entire Liverpool team. That's why I chose him. I repeat, there were a lot of very great players this year, so the choice was difficult."
