Koulibaly | “Ballon d’Or nomination motivates me”

Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly revealed his feelings over making the Ballon d’Or shortlist of 30 players.

“This nomination is exciting news to me because my journey in football started a long way from here,” wrote the Senegal international on his official Twitter account.

“It is a recognition that makes me want to do better and better. Always better.”

In addition to his superb defensive displays, Koulibaly has often spoken out against racism, and ended his tweet with #NoToRacism.

He joins Cristiano Ronaldo and Matthijs de Ligt as the only representatives from Serie A to be included on the shortlist.