Roberto Martinez names shock Portugal player who deserves to win the Ballon d'Or and nobody else has said it yet

Portugal boss Roberto Martinez has named the player who deserves to win the 2025 Ballon d'Or.

On Wednesday night, Martinez's Portugal side travelled to the Allianz Arena to take on Germany in the semi-final of the UEFA Nations League.

Florian Wirtz gave Germany the lead three minutes into the second half with a brilliant header, but goals from Francisco Conceicao and Cristiano Ronaldo secured a 2-1 win for the visitors.

As a result, Portugal will now await either Spain or France in Sunday's final.

Speaking after the match, Portugal boss Martinez picked out Paris Saint Germain midfielder Vintinha as someone who deserves to win the prestigious Ballon d'Or award.

As reported by Portuguese news outlet A Bola, Martinez said: "One thing is what Vitinha is doing this season. For me, without a doubt. He is a player who was essential for PSG to win everything they have won.

"I think that due to Vitinha's style and efficiency, he deserves to be awarded the Ballon d'Or."

He added: "Vitinha, for us, it was important to come in and finish the game.

"Today, Nélson Semedo, Chico Conceição and Vitinha came in and added a lot and helped us finish the game."

Roberto Martinez thinks Vitinha deserves to win the Ballon d'Or. Image: Getty

After PSG's triumph in the UEFA Champions League, Ousmane Dembele has emerged as the favourite to take home the Ballon d'Or.

Meanwhile, the likes of Lamine Yamal, Raphinha and Mohamed Salah are also said to be in the running to win the award.

When asked whether the winner of France vs Spain on Thursday night could decide the Ballon d'Or, Yamal said: "People have the wrong concept of the Ballon d'Or. The Ballon d'Or is not for the one who wins a match, it's for the best player of the year.

"For me, if people want to vote for the one who wins the match, perfect. I think Spain will win. It's up to the people and, whatever happens, I will continue to enjoy football and have a good time."