The 2024 Globe Soccer Awards celebrated football’s finest on Friday, recognising exceptional talent and contributions across various categories.
The event, held in Dubai, showcased the achievements of players, clubs, and officials during a star-studded ceremony.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who received the Best Middle East Player award, made headlines with his comments about his career and football leagues.
When asked about transitioning to coaching, Ronaldo ruled it out but hinted at another potential role in football. “Becoming a head coach or manager? No… but maybe I could become a club owner,” he said.
The Portuguese superstar also expressed his continued love for his former club, Manchester United, saying: “I love Manchester United. I want the best for them. The problem is not the coach; it’s something different.”
Reflecting on the competitive football landscape, Ronaldo praised Real Madrid for their resilience. “People don’t expect Real Madrid to be good at the beginning, but in the end… they are now ahead of Barcelona,” he noted.
Ronaldo also sparked debate by comparing football leagues, asserting that the Saudi Pro League is superior to France’s Ligue 1.
“Saudi League is better than Ligue 1, of course. France only has PSG. The rest are finished,” he declared, adding the challenge of competing in extreme weather conditions. “Try to sprint in 38, 39, 40-degree weather and see…”
Aitana Bonmatí and FC Barcelona Femení were recognised for their dominance in women’s football, while Alessandro Del Piero and Florentino Pérez were honoured for their illustrious careers.
Some winners of the 2024 Globe Soccer Awards include:
Best Agent: Jorge Mendes
Best Coach: Carlo Ancelotti
Special Career Award: Florentino Pérez
Best Club: Real Madrid
Best Middle East Club: Al Ain
Best Middle East Coach: Jorge Jesus
Best Sporting Director: Piero Ausilio
Best Middle East Player: Cristiano Ronaldo
Best Women’s Player: Aitana Bonmatí
Best Women’s Club: FC Barcelona Femení
Special Career Award: Alessandro Del Piero
Player Career Award: Rio Ferdinand
Player Career Award: Thibaut Courtois
