Ballon d’Or 2024: Rodri beats Vinicius Jr. to win the coveted award in Paris

• Manchester City midfield metronome Rodri won the 2024 Ballon d’Or ahead of Vinicius Junior on Monday 28 October.
• The 28-year-old becomes the first midfielder to win the prestigious prize since Luka Modric recorded the feat in 2018.
• Unfortunately, Vinicius and the entire Real Madrid entourage boycotted the award, having previously learned that the Brazilian would not win the prize.

In a surprise twist, the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony saw Manchester City midfield anchor Rodrigo Cascante edge out Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior to win the prestigious award on Monday night.

Arriving in Paris on crutches due to injury, the Spanish midfielder nevertheless emerged victorious, despite widespread speculation earlier in the day that Vinicius would take home the honor.

Rodri beats Vinicius to win Ballon d’Or

Vinicius, considered the favourite, was overshadowed by Rodri, whose club and international achievements proved decisive.

With City’s Premier League title and European Championship win with Spain, the 28-year-old becomes the first midfielder since Luka Modric in 2018 to win the Ballon d’Or, testament to the crucial role defensive midfielders play on the pitch. world stage.

Renowned for his ability to control the pace of play and defend his defense with a combination of composure and tenacity, Rodri’s all-round style was a strong case in his favor.

Real Madrid boycotted the Ballon d’Or ceremony

Meanwhile, hints of the result appeared in reports from Spain, quoted Diario ASa few hours before the event, he suggested that Rodri would receive the prize.

The speculation led to Vinicius and other Real Madrid nominees missing the ceremony at the Théâtre du Châtelet, highlighting their displeasure.

Real Madrid regrets insulting Vinicius

Representatives of Madrid expressed disappointment over UEFA and the Ballon d’Or selection committee, saying they were disrespected by the decision.

In an official comment to AFP, the club noted, as quoted by the publication Mirror: “If the award criteria do not determine Vinicius as the winner, then Carvajal should be recognized.

“Since this did not happen, it is clear that UEFA and the Ballon d’Or have little respect for Real Madrid. And Real Madrid will not participate where they are not respected.”

Rodri arrived on crutches

Ahead of the highly anticipated Ballon d’Or ceremony, Rodrigo Cascante was spotted in Paris making his way to his hotel lobby on crutches.

The Manchester City star arrived in the French capital for today’s prestigious event.

Thierry Henry recommended Rodri for the main prize

Previously, Brief news highlighted this icon of French football at the 2024 Ballon d’Or.

The Arsenal legend confidently supported the Spaniard, noting his outstanding performance at the European Championships.

Henry considered Vinicius Jr., but ultimately decided on Rodri after assessing Vinicius’ performance with Brazil at the Copa America.

Source: YEN.com.gh