FIFA's The Best awards are to be handed out on Monday at the London Palladium and everything points towards Real Madrid stealing the spotlight in the event. Cristiano Ronaldo is poised to win the award, but Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde has his doubts.
The best players in the world are to convene in the English capital and Barcelona will be in attendance after snubbing FIFA's ceremony last year. Lionel Messi touched down in London on Saturday to meet Cesc Fabregas and the rest of the Barcelona expedition travelled on Monday with president Bartomeu at the head.
Meanwhile, Ernesto Valverde stayed at home to prepare Tuesday's Copa del Rey fixture and he wants no distractions. Speaking to reporters ahead of the Murcia clash, the Barca coach was asked if Cristiano Ronaldo is favourite to win the FIFA award.
'I don't know if Cristiano Ronaldo deserves to be named The Best', Valverde said, without going into details about the awards ceremony which will take place on Monday.
Barring any last minute surprises, Lionel Messi will come in second behind the Real Madrid striker and Zinedine Zidane will be named best manager. Valverde prefers to focus on winning Barca's fourth consecutive Copa del Rey.