5 Barcelona stars apart from Lionel Messi to win the Ballon d’Or

#4 Johan Cruyff - 1973, 1974

Johan Cruyff of Barcelona

The legendary Dutch footballer was the only player other than Lionel Messi who had won Ballon d’Or trophy with FC Barcelona more than 1 time. In fact, Johan Cruyff had won Ballon d’Or trophy 3 times in his career. Earlier while he was playing for Ajax, he received the top honors in 1971.

Johan Cruyff played with Barcelona between 1973 and 1978 going on to score 48 goals from 143 appearances. He was also one of the rare players who later turned manager and got the chance to manage Barcelona. He was the commander in chief of Barcelona between 1988 and 1996.

He had also managed the Netherlands national team during his managerial career and was an exponent of Total Football. His style of football is said to have influenced the successful managers like Sir Alex Ferguson, Arsène Wenger, Pep Guardiola etc.

Johan Cruyff was not just a Barcelona star. He was someone who imprinted his legacy in football history.