Griezmann: I've won 3 finals, I should be Balon d'Or finalist

Atletico Madrid's French forward Antoine Griezmann believes he will never have a chance to win the Balon d'Or award if he doesn't win it this time.

In an interview to the French magazine L'Equipe, Griezmann said that 2018 was the best year of his career, reports Xinhua news agency.

"It's the most successful year. I've scored more goals but in terms of trophies, it's the best," he said, making reference to forming part of an Atletico Madrid side which won the Europa League and the European Supercup, while France were the winners of this summer's World Cup in Russia.

Griezmann was nominated in 2016, but failed to win after Real Madrid beat Atletico in the Champions League final, while France were defeated by Portugal in the European Championship.

"If I compare 2016 to this year, I feel I should be among the three finalists. In 2016 I lost two finals and was chosen among the top three. This year I've won three finals..." he commented.

"It won't be unfair (if he doesn't win), but I'll wonder what else I have to do. I've won trophies and was decisive at key moments. But then I don't vote," he added.

Griezmann was also asked about the FIFA award 'The Best' whose three finalists are Cristiano Ronaldo, Mohamed Salah and Luka Modric.

"It's strange...This is a FIFA trophy; FIFA organises the World Cup. We won it and there is not one France player on the final list," he said.

--IANS

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