Ronaldo, who spoke after the awards ceremony in Lisbon, stressed that it was a privilege to be surrounded by so many young players and highlighted his personal struggles over the past year.


“This world is moving so fast, with social media, the press, it’s been wild. It’s been an extremely complicated year on a personal level. Never let yourself be influenced by the press. Don’t let anyone pull you down,” said Cristiano Ronaldo.


In a ceremony that presented 20 awards, Benfica president Luís Filipe Vieira, picked up the prize for the best team of the year.


Other winners included Bruno Lage, who received the best coach of the year trophy and Jéssica Silva for best female player of the year.