Is Luis Suarez's Bid for Ballon d'Or 2017 Feasible?

No, unfortunately, neither Luis Suarez nor Lionel Messi can win the Ballon d'Or 2017. The award was already decided when Cristiano Ronaldo won the Euro Cup with Portugal.

Why the Ballon d'Or is Unpredictable

Even as a big fan of Luis Suarez, the nature of the Ballon d'Or voting makes it exceptionally difficult for him to secure a top three spot. Historically, players who lead their teams to significant trophies often top the list. For instance, players like Wesley Sneijder and Franck Ribéry, who had stellar seasons but lacked titles, still ended up in the third spot.

Statistical Edge Despite Lack of Trophies

While Luis Suarez has better statistical performances in the 2017 season, the influence of Cristiano Ronaldo's achievements in the Euros must not be overlooked. The Portuguese superstar has not only won the Champions League and Euro Cup, but also demonstrated exceptional team ethic and leadership. This combination is something that might outweigh Suarez's individual accomplishments.

Other Factors at Play

People will also discuss how Lionel Messi and Neymar contributed to Suarez's numbers, potentially bringing attention to his controversial actions. This will add a layer of complexity to the voting process, making it even more difficult for Suarez.

Final Analysis

Although Suarez might be second or third in the voting, it is clear that Cristiano Ronaldo's achievements in both the Champions League and the Euro Cup make him a strong candidate for the title. Until the Copa America or Euro Cup concludes, Suarez remains a top contender. However, should Ronaldo cement his status with these victories, the race will be over.

In conclusion, while Luis Suarez had a remarkable year statistically, the pressure of winning significant trophies and the impact of Cristiano Ronaldo’s dual triumph likely mean that he won't be the Ballon d'Or winner in 2017.