$5 Reasons Why Manuel Neuer Should Win Ballon d\'Or$

5 Reasons Why Manuel Neuer Should Win Ballon d'Or

By Sam Hader

Manuel Neuer's Case for the Ballon D'or

Manuel Neuer — Manuel Neuer is undeniably the best goalkeeper in the world, and one of the best players as well. Here is why he should win the prestigious Ballon d'Or.

5. Best Goalkeeper and Winner of the 2014 World Cup

Germany v Argentina: 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Final

5. Best Goalkeeper and Winner of the 2014 World Cup

Germany v Argentina: 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Final — Manuel Neuer was a rock in the back for Germany. His stellar play elevated the entire team and allowed them to push forward during crucial moments in the game. He finished with a total of four goals conceded in seven games, with two of them being a consolation prize for Brazil and Algeria in the dying embers of the game. He had 23 saves, which leads to almost a 6:1 save to conceded ratio. Just incredible.

4. Stellar League Play

Borussia Dortmund v FC Bayern Muenchen - UEFA Champions League Final

4. Stellar League Play

Borussia Dortmund v FC Bayern Muenchen - UEFA Champions League Final — Neuer also excels with Bayern in the Bundesliga season. Through 11 games, Bayern are atop the table (as expected) with Neuer garnering eight clean sheets, 23 saves and three goals allowed. His play is a reason why Vegas betting actually favors Bayern to win the league this season, and if you bet against him, you'll most likely pay.

3. Revolutionized the Position

Germany v Argentina: 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Final

3. Revolutionized the Position

Germany v Argentina: 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Final — Neuer is the face of the "sweeper-keeper" style of goalkeeping. He can play way outside of his own area, has technical ability and helps keep his team up the field by playing out of his zone, even close to midfield. He is every defender's dream: He comes out on every ball and he's a libero. He's the new Franz Beckenbauer, yet he's a keeper -- it's quite astounding.

2. Champions League Play

Borussia Dortmund v FC Bayern Muenchen - UEFA Champions League Final

2. Champions League Play

Borussia Dortmund v FC Bayern Muenchen - UEFA Champions League Final — Through the Group Stage of the UCL, Neuer has allowed one goal in four games. This was in a 7-1 stomping of Roma, so it fits the idea that whenever he concedes it doesn't matter. He has 11 saves, which means he has an 11:1 save-to-conceded ratio, further adding to his other incredible totals.

1. If Not Now, When?

FC Bayern Muenchen Press Conference

1. If Not Now, When?

FC Bayern Muenchen Press Conference — Although there's the titanic battle between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, this man deserves the award. His play is some of the best in the world, yet he is restricted to such a finite space. He's won every major award possible in his career with many in this campaign, and he's likely to win a few more as this season progresses. It's not impossible for a defender to win; in 2006 and 1996, a defender won, and Gigi Buffon was second in 2006.

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