Following the announcement of the 2024 Ballon d’Or, Carlo Ancelotti and three Real Madrid players quickly expressed their reactions after Vinicius Jr. was edged out by Rodri for the prestigious prize.
Rodri, a Manchester City and Spain midfielder, claimed the 50th Ballon d’Or at a ceremony in Paris on Monday night.
He was voted the world’s best player by 100 journalists from top-ranked FIFA nations, having played a pivotal role in Manchester City’s Premier League title and Spain’s Euro 2024 victory…Continue Reading
However, Real Madrid’s response was one of frustration. The club chose to boycott the event entirely after hearing rumors that Vinicius Jr. had not won.
As a result, no representatives from Real Madrid attended, leading to only a brief acknowledgment of their Team of the Year award.
Additionally, Carlo Ancelotti did not personally collect his Men’s Johan Cruyff Trophy, which is awarded to the top coach.
The Italian took to Instagram to reference his victory but made sure to reference Vinicius. Ancelotti wrote: “I want to thank my family, my president, my club, my players and above all Vini and Carvajal.”
Eduardo Camavinga followed up on the announcement, commenting: “Football politics [cross emoji] My brother you are the best player in the world and no award can say otherwise. Love you my bro.”
Meanwhile Andrey Lunin posted a picture of himself and Vinicius on Instagram, with a sticker that said “You’re the best.”
Vinicius’ club and country colleague Eder Militao also weighed in on the subject, adding: “You are the best and no one can take that away from you! The Best!”.
And finally, Aurelien Tchouameni felt the need to give Vinicius his flowers. On X, the France international posted: “Nothing will take away what you’ve achieved my brother. We ALL know…
“They are not ready for what you’re gonna deliver. Love @vinijr.”
Prior to Rodri being confirmed as the Ballon d’Or winner, Toni Kroos labelled the 24-year-old “The best” on Instagram, with Vinicius replying, “I love you Antonio!!”.
Vinicius is said to have canceled a chartered flight and private gathering he had planned for the ceremony and ended up taking second place. Jude Bellingham finished in third, while team captain Dani Carvajal secured fourth place.
