-Deborah Akinyosoye
Real Madrid are reportedly set to boycott tonight’s Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris amid growing indications that Brazilian winger Vinicius Jr will not claim football’s most prestigious individual award.
Despite his remarkable season, new reports suggest that Manchester City midfielder Rodri is poised to take the honour instead.
Paris-based outlet RMC Sport broke the news, stating that Real Madrid’s top brass, including President Florentino Perez, are “furious” and have decided to cancel the club’s official presence at the event.
RMC quoted Perez’s dismay, adding that the club feels “disrespected” by the decision, which they believe undervalues the accomplishments of both Vinicius Jr and fellow Real Madrid star Dani Carvajal, who the club contends also deserves consideration.
Journalist Fabrice Hawkins reported that those close to Vinicius Jr now believe he will not be crowned the Ballon d’Or winner.
“Everyone in Madrid has this feeling,” Hawkins noted, suggesting that the disappointment runs deep within the club’s ranks.
The Ballon d’Or is expected to be awarded to 28-year-old Rodri, who enjoyed a stellar season, anchoring Manchester City’s midfield on the way to their fourth Premier League title in six years and leading Spain to a Euro 2024 championship win over England.
Vinicius Jr is predicted to finish second, with his Real Madrid teammate, Jude Bellingham, reportedly coming in third