'Messi & Ronaldo scored more, but I won the treble' - Ribery
Ahead of the Uefa Player of the Year award being handed out, the BayernMunich winger has criticised Thomas Muller's absence and talked up hisown chances of winning
On August 29, during the Champions League group stage draw, one of thetrio will be crowned the best player in Europe for the 2012-13 season.
AlthoughRonaldo impressed with his individual displays for Real Madrid andMessi broke numerous goal records en route to another Barcelona triumphin La Liga, the Frenchman believes his trophy haul last campaign boostshis chances of winning the award but criticised the absence of team-mateThomas Muller as a frontrunner.
"My level was at the very topall season long, I've always been in shape and won everything that couldbe won," the 30-year-old told Sport Bild. "There are compelling arguments [in my favour].
"Thereare other top Bayern players missing from the nominees. Thomas Mullerwould have deserved to be among the finalists. It's a shame because healso had a great season.
"Messi and Cristiano have scored more goals than me, but I took the treble and, in these awards, titles are always important."
Riberyalso spoke about how he chose not to join Barcelona five years ago,which he claims made Pep Guardiola's arrival at the Allianz Arena thissummer all the more sweeter.
"In the 2008-09 season, I attempted to join [Eric] Abidal at Barca," he added. "It crossed my mind, but I had a contract here.
"Iwas fascinated by Pep Guardiola because, not only is he a great coach,he's a great person. So I was delighted when he signed for Bayern."
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