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WHAT HAPPENED?
Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr was expected to win the 2024 Ballon d’Or but missed out to Manchester City midfielder Rodri. The Brazilian believes his fight against racism cost him the prestigious prize and has sent out a defiant response after finishing in second place. Real Madrid fans, as well as players past and present, have all hit out after seeing Rodri pip Vinicius Jr to the Ballon d’Or, while France Football have attempted to explain why the Brazilian was not crowned the best male player in the world.
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Real Madrid were beaten 4-0 by Barcelona in El Clasico last time out, with Vinicius Jr taunting Gavi during the match by claiming “on Monday I’m going for the Ballon d’Or.” However, the forward did not even fly to Paris for the ceremony after Real Madrid learned beforehand that Rodri would win. Garcia says that Real Madrid were eager to know the result but denied telling Los Blancos who had finished first before the ceremony took place.