French football legend Zinedine Zidane has expressed his support for Brazilian star Vinicius Junior, who finished second in the 2024 Ballon d’Or, after Manchester City’s Spanish player Rodri, who won the award for the first time in his career .
Rodri’s selection to win the Ballon d’Or has sparked mixed reactions globally, with most expectations falling in favor of Real Madrid star Vinicius thanks to his stellar career this year.
Zidane, who coached Vinicius at Real Madrid, expressed his position on the selection of the award by France Football magazine, through statements he made to sports channels DAZN, reported by the “France Football” website.FootBoomHe said: “It is not always the one who really deserves it who wins”, referring to his belief in Vinicius’s right.
Yenisius Junior and Zinedine Zidane
Zizou suggested that the Brazilian top scorer winger deserved to win the award for the first time in his career at the expense of Rodri, and commented saying: “Looking at the performances he has put in this year, Vinicius Junior was exceptional. He deserves to be appreciated for all his efforts and talent.
Zidane publicly criticized those responsible for awarding the Ballon d’Or and said: “The winner cannot always be the one who really deserves it. » “Frankly, this award (the Ballon d’Or) lost its credibility in 2018, when Cristiano Ronaldo did not win it. »
Rodri choice sparks global controversy
The choice of Rodri came as a surprise to the fans, especially after the remarkable performance shown by Vinicius and his colleague Jude Bellingham, since the duo helped to win four titles with Real Madrid last season, including the Champions League and the Spanish League. Fans also expected that one of them would receive the award based on their achievements.
Real Madrid boycotts Ballon d’Or ceremony
It should be noted that Real Madrid players and officials refrained from attending the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris, knowing in advance that Vinicius would not win the award, to express their objection to the choices of the prestigious French magazine.
