Tottenham’s Richarlison expressed his outrage over the recent Ballon d’Or results, labeling them “embarrassing” after Vinicius Jr was overlooked in favor of Manchester City’s Rodri.
The decision has sparked debate, with the Real Madrid winger missing out on the prestigious award despite an impressive season, while Rodri took the prize following Manchester City’s Premier League success and Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph.
Real Madrid’s reaction was also one of disappointment, as Vinicius, Jude Bellingham, and Dani Carvajal secured the second, third, and fourth spots respectively.
In a passionate social media post, Richarlison voiced support for his fellow Brazilian, lamenting how Brazilian fans had eagerly awaited Vinicius’s crowning moment.
“All of us who live football eagerly await these awards, and today, Brazil expected to celebrate Vinicius,” he posted.
Acknowledging Rodri’s talent, he expressed frustration that Vinicius missed out on the award, which he believed was deserved: “The only one who lost today was football.”
Real Madrid’s stance was similarly critical. The club, disappointed by the award decisions, chose to boycott the ceremony after details were leaked beforehand.
Manager Carlo Ancelotti, who received the Men’s Coach of the Year award, subtly acknowledged the controversy, thanking Vinicius and Carvajal in his speech.
In a formal statement, Real Madrid expressed concerns about the award’s criteria, suggesting that if Vinicius was overlooked, Carvajal should have won based on the same standards.
Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola responded diplomatically, defending Rodri’s recognition while acknowledging Real Madrid’s choice to boycott the event.