Barcelona star Andres Iniesta hopes the 2012 Fifa Ballon d’Or will go to a Spanish player following his country’s victory at Euro 2012.
Even though Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are regarded by many as the favourites to win the prestigious individual honour, players such as Xavi, Iniesta and Iker Casillas have also been tipped to be crowned player of the year.
“I hope that one of my team-mates of the national team wins the Ballon d’Or,” Iniesta told reporters.
“However, a lot of people will cast their vote, and we’ll just have to wait and see what happens.”
The attacking midfielder hailed Spain’s performances at major tournaments in recent years, and highlighted the impact the successes have brought to his country.
“This team have made history and is legendary. The most important thing, though, is that we have brought happiness to the Spanish people. We hope that we can continue to put in performances like this,” he said.
Spain will start their qualification campaign for the 2014 World Cup with the away match against Georgia on September 11.
