- Vinicius Junior was beaten to the 2024 Ballon d’Or award by Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri
- The Real Madrid star refused to travel to the ceremony after learning he had lost to Rodri, a decision that sparked mixed reactions
- Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville has criticised Vinicius Jr’s actions and said Rodri deserved to win
Manchester United legend and football legend has called out Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior for his actions after learning he wasn’t winning the Ballon d’Or.
The Brazilian was a favourite to win the award after leading Real Madrid to Champions League and La Liga glory.
However, a leak before the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony indicated that Manchester City midfielder Rodri had won the award.
Source: UGC
Moments after, a social media storm followed, with many claiming Vini Jr. was robbed. The Real Madrid winger was criticised for failing to attend the event.
The Spanish giants were slammed for their actions all week. Fans, pundits, former and current players were not happy with their decision.
Gary Neville blasts Vini Jr
Rodri became the fourth Spanish player to win it after a great season for club and country. He helped Man City win their fourth straight Premier League title and led Spain to the 2024 European Championship.
Gary Neville believes Rodri deserved to win but was unimpressed with the reaction after Vini Jr lost.
“I’m quite offended by the reaction towards Vinicius Jr not winning by, to be fair, his fellow professionals as well,” Neville said on The Overlap US via Metro Sports.
“Vinicius is a star, he’s a wonderful player, but the idea that Rodri doesn’t deserve to win it is just plain wrong.”
The legendary right-back called out the behaviour of the 24-year-old winger.
“Vinicius is a special talent, he’s amazing, he’s going to win it one day, I’m sure, but the idea that you try and take the glory away… I get it, he’s a fans’ player, he’s a players’ player, he’s somebody who will be respected all around the world and a good man… I just think it is classless.”
How much Rodri will earn after winning Ballon d’Or
At the same time, Legit.ng has reported on how much Rodri will get after winning the Ballon d’Or.
It might be the most lucrative individual award in football, but the winner does not receive any monetary gains.
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Source: TUKO.co.ke