Ronaldo, Mbappe, Mead: The most controversial Ballon d’Or results this year

The 2022 Ballon d’Or produced a number of contentious results. 

This year, there was a decidedly different feel to the ceremony as seven-time winner Lionel Messi failed to even make the shortlist. 

And while few could begrudge Real Madrid star Karim Benzema scooping the men’s award for the first time, there were still plenty of players whose ranking in the top 30 is up for debate. 

Equally, some of the other awards issued on the night produced some interesting outcomes, not least the Kopa Trophy and Ballon d’Or Féminin. 

VIDEO: Karima Benzema wins the 2022 Ballon d'Or

Here is the image you've all been waiting for! Karim Benzema! #ballondor with @adidasFR pic.twitter.com/TJze0Km1s6

Ronaldo is a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, having scooped the award once with Man United in 2008 and four times with Real Madrid in 2013, 2014, 2016 and 2017. 

However, the Portuguese icon finished 20th this year –– his lowest ranking for 17 years. 

The last time Ronaldo ended up this low, Ronaldinho won the award, while Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard claimed second and third respectively.

There’s been much debate over the better full-back is between Cancelo and Alexander-Arnold. 

Both are exceptional footballers and played key roles for Man City and Liverpool respectively last season. 

Trent helped Jurgen Klopp’s side win the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup. Cancelo, on the other hand, was an integral part of the City side that won the Premier League. 

Recently, Alexander-Arnold has come under fire for his defensive ability but was he still worthy of being ranked above Cancelo in this list?

Despite being just 19 years old, Bellingham has already made more than 100 appearances for Borussia Dortmund. 

The midfielder was named the runner-up in the