Jean-Marc Bosman believes he is the reason for Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo's success

Bosman changed the face of football transfers when, 20 years ago today, his challenge against the previous regulations governing football transfers was won.

Clubs previously held power over players and could block their transfer, even if they were out of contract. The former Standard Liege player led the change which now allows footballers to see out their contract and move without the permission of their employers.

The Belgian believes this rule change from 1995 has underpinned the success of the world's best footballers.

"If Cristiano and Messi win what they win, it's thanks to me," Bosman told Marca.

The Real Madrid and Barcelona pair are nominated for the Ballon d'Or once again and have shared the crowd between them for the last seven years.

"They are allowed to play together with the best players in Europe at their clubs and thanks to that they can win more titles and money.

"We have already seen that, when they are with the national team, it's not so easy to win."