Matthaus hits out at FIFPro World XI

Lothar Matthaus says he is surprised at the composition of the FIFPro World XI and hit out at the number of Spain-based players in the team.

Players such as Dani Alves and Gerard Pique made the squad after relatively disappointing performances throughout 2012, whereas Andrea Pirlo and Mats Hummels missed out despite their great form, much to the frustration of the former Germany international.

“I can’t understand that the FIFPro World XI only consists of players from La Liga,” Matthaeus was quoted as saying by Focus.

“In the front rows, there were some people who were shaking their heads.”

The former Bayern Munich star also had his say on Lionel Messi’s fourth consecutive Ballon d’Or win, and stressed that the Argentine fully deserved the award.

“Messi’s success is absolutely fine, of course,” he said.

The Barcelona attacker became the first player in history to win the prestigious individual award four times.