The Ballon d’Or, arguably the most desired award in soccer, was given to Rodrigo Hernández Cascante, also known as Rodri, a player for the English club Manchester City, on Oct. 28.
France Football announced that Rodri’s win against Vinícius Júnior had a difference of 41 points. Total voting points gave Rodri 1,170 points and Vinicius 1,129.
In the 2023-24 season, midfielder Rodri had 63 appearances with 27 goal contributions. He also created 114 chances for Spain and Manchester City. He was a key player for his club due to his defensive efforts to keep the opposition with an average of 0.9 goals while he was present; without him, Manchester City would have conceded an average of 1.3 goals, according to Sports Illustrated.
Moreover, Rodri shocked all football fans with an amazing performance at the Euro 2024, leading Spain to the finals and winning against England in a thrilling 2-1 scoreboard. Rodri also received the UEFA Euro 2024 Player of the Tournament award..
Many fans argued that Vini deserved the Ballon d’Or as he was the best player in the past season, reminding others of his numbers.
In the 2023/24 season, Vini had 37 goal contributions in 49 games for all competitions and won LaLiga, UEFA Champions League and Supercopa de España. He contributed in key matches against Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and Barcelona, according to Sporting News.
However, the UEFA posted on their website telling fans that the criteria for the Ballon d’Or are, first and foremost, individual performances and decisive and impressive character. Second, team performances and achievements and finally, class and fair play.
The reiteration of the order of importance of the award’s criteria not only silenced many fans but was a reminder of Vini’s attitude on the pitch, often disrespecting players and fans with his actions.
On Oct. 28 Fabrizio Romano, a football journalist, announced on his social media platforms that none of Real Madrid’s players will travel to France after being told that Vini won’t receive the prestigious Ballon d’Or Award.
“It’s confirmed now, Vini did not travel to Paris. . . No one from Real Madrid is present, not even Ancelotti or Bellingham to show full support…” Romano stated on Instagram.
This breaking news led to a France Football staff member interrupting and reminding fans to remain quiet as they chanted Vini’s name seconds before the Ballon d’Or winner was announced.
