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Madrid, October 28, 2024 – Manchester City’s Rodri claimed the prestigious 2024 Ballon d’Or, solidifying his position as one of the most influential midfielders in football today. The Spanish playmaker was instrumental in City’s dominant season, where they lifted both the Premier League and UEFA Champions League trophies. Known for his calm presence on the ball and tactical brilliance, Rodri’s contributions were pivotal to Manchester City’s success, particularly in high-stakes matches where his midfield control frequently stifled opponents.
However, Rodri’s win left a cloud of controversy, as Real Madrid’s forward Vinícius Júnior, widely considered the favorite after a record-setting season, finished in second place. The Brazilian’s performances throughout 2024 made him a standout candidate, especially after leading Real Madrid to a Champions League victory and breaking records as the youngest player to score in two UCL finals.
Real Madrid’s Response: A Defiant Stand
The decision to award Rodri over Vinícius sparked strong reactions from the Real Madrid camp, as past and present players quickly voiced their support for Vinícius. The Brazilian forward responded on X (formerly Twitter) with a powerful message: “I will do it 10 times again if I have to. They are not ready,” expressing his commitment and resilience despite the snub.
Real Madrid veterans and current players rallied around their teammates. Eduardo Camavinga took to social media to decry “Football Politics,” suggesting that forces beyond the field might have influenced the outcome. Vinícius’s close allies, including Toni Kroos, Karim Benzema, Arda Güler, Federico Valverde, Eder Militao, Andriy Lunin, and Aurélien Tchouaméni, joined in sharing messages of support. Head Coach Carlo Ancelotti, recently named the 2024 Coach of the Year, also extended his support.
In a bold display of unity, Vinícius and his fellow Real Madrid nominees opted not to attend the ceremony in Paris, a move that left the stage empty when Real Madrid was awarded the 2024 Men’s Club of the Year.
What’s Next for Vinícius and Real Madrid?
The Ballon d’Or result has left Vinícius and Real Madrid more determined than ever. With his teammates and fans rallying behind him, the Brazilian forward has set his sights on another stellar season to further cement his legacy. His response, filled with resilience, suggests that Vinícius will channel this setback into greater performances in the coming year, with the Madrid faithful eager to see how he will rise in response.
