Luka Modric, the esteemed midfielder of Real Madrid, has expressed his desire for Toni Kroos, his fellow midfielder, to be honored with the Ballon d’Or this year, placing him above teammates Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior in the running.
Kroos is set to conclude his tenure with Real Madrid as his contract expires this summer.
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His critical contributions have been a cornerstone of the Spanish club’s triumphs this season, including scoring a goal and contributing eight assists that have propelled them to clinch the La Liga championship.
In addition to his league achievements, Kroos has delivered an assist in the Champions League and is expected to be in the starting lineup for the final against Borussia Dortmund on Saturday, June 1.
Speaking about the man he has shared the pitch with on 334 occasions in all competitions, managing a joint goal contribution, Modric said (via @MadridXtra): “Ballon d’Or? Someone of Real Madrid surely (laughs). My favourites are Vinicius, Bellingham, and Kroos. I would like Toni to win it, he’s my friend.”
If Toni Kroos emerges victorious in the Champions League final and makes a significant impact at the Euros with Germany, his prospects for the Ballon d’Or would greatly increase.
Yet, his teammates mentioned earlier also stand a chance at the accolade. Jude Bellingham, since his high-profile €103 million transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid, has been outstanding.
In 41 appearances across all competitions, he has scored 23 goals and provided 12 assists.
Vinicius Junior’s performance is equally impressive, with 23 goals and 11 assists in 38 appearances this season.
Carlo Ancelotti, the manager of Real Madrid, regards both Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior as leading candidates for this year’s Ballon d’Or.
It is anticipated that both will be in the starting lineup for the Champions League final on Saturday.
In doing so, Ancelotti has snubbed Toni Kroos, who will have his last chance of winning the award. The ex-Everton manager said (via @MadridXtra): “The Ballon d’Or should go to Bellingham and Vinicius.”
