Arsenal attacker Gabriel Martinelli is one of the latest to weigh into the 2024 Ballon d’Or deserved winner conversation.
Martinelli backs Vinicius for Ballon d’Or
The Brazilian attacker picked his compatriot Vinicius Jr., as the deserved winner of the prestigious award.
“In my opinion, he deserves to win the Ballon d’Or,” Martinelli said via Goal.
Vinicius’ impressive performances for Madrid
Vinicius has been one of the best performers in the world over the past year, helping Real Madrid to a La Liga and Champions League double.
The Brazilian is one of the front runners of the Ballon d’Or award, facing competitions from Manchester City’s Rodri and fellow Madridsters Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe.
Recently, the 24-year-old attacker came off the bench to inspire Los Blancos to a 4-1 comeback victory over Espanyol, providing an assist and scoring a goal to help Carlo Ancelotti’s side to a third consecutive league victory this season.
Brazilian legend Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima had also tipped Vinicius to win the Ballon d’Or.
“I think Viní already deserves it [the Ballon d’Or]. He’s had a spectacular Champions League, a spectacular La Liga, and he’s been evolving more and more,” Ronaldo said via ESPN
“I remember that I did his presentation the day he arrived at Real Madrid and I got on well with him. I talk to Viní a lot about football and certain details and, looking at everything that’s happened, it’s a fantastic development that he’s making.
“I think his time has come. He’s been extremely decisive this year for Real Madrid. For me, today he’s the best player in the world by far.”
The award ceremony will take place on October 28, and it will be interesting to see who wins it this year.
