We all know who really deserved to win!’ – Brazil players rally around Vinicius Junior after ’embarrassing’ Ballon d’Or snub & claim ‘the only person who lost was football’
Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior received strong support from his Brazil team-mates after being pipped to the Ballon d'Or by Rodri.
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WHAT HAPPENED?
After playing an important role in Real Madrid winning the Champions League and La Liga in the 2023-24 campaign, Vinicius Jr. hoped to bag the prestigious Ballon d’Or for the first time in his career. However, on Monday in Paris, Manchester City’s Rodri was handed over the Golden Ball instead. Real Madrid learned about the outcome hours before the ceremony, and the club decided to boycott the awards as a mark of protest.
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WHAT HAS BEEN SAID
After receiving support from his club, Vinicius’ Brazil team-mates have also come forward to show solidarity with the winger. Juventus star Douglas Luiz wrote on Instagram: “We all know who really deserved to win the Ballon d’Or. We are all with you, brother, we will do everything so that you can win this ‘Ballon d’Or’ one day. I love you.”
Douglas Luiz InstagramMeanwhile, Tottenham forward Richarlison posted: “All of us who live soccer look forward to the individual awards with great anxiety each season. Today, all Brazilians who love football woke up expecting to see another player from our country win an award for the best in the world after so long. Unfortunately, by criteria no one can understand, the prize did not come. And don’t get me wrong, Rodri is a bad player who deserves to be among the best. But Vini not getting that Ballon d’Or was embarrassing, and the only person who lost today was football. I remember Vini saying his dream was to see all of Brazil cheering for him. And that day was today! You are a giant and the best in the world, kido! And no trophy will change that. Move forward and never be quiet! We’re all together!” -
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AFPTHE BIGGER PICTURE
West Ham’s Lucas Paqueta, who was linked with a move to City last season, also showed his support for Vinicius, writing on Instagram: “Just so you know that I’m proud to say that I’m your friend, that I admire you and root for you more than any victory of mine! I admire your story and the person you’ve become! You’re the best! Even if they say otherwise! I love you and we’re closer than ever! Always moving forward!!!”
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Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR VINICIUS?
The 24-year-old has vowed to come back 10 times stronger as the 2024-25 season gets into full swing. He will be next seen in action on Saturday as Los Blancos take on Valencia in La Liga.
