France Football’s Chief Editor, Vincent Garcia, has finally revealed why Vinícius Júnior missed out on the 2024 Ballon d’Or award.
After a stellar 2023-2024 season in which he helped Real Madrid achieve a Champions League and La Liga double, scoring 24 goals and providing 11 assists, Vinícius, alongside teammate Jude Bellingham, was considered a favourite for the prestigious award.
The European Championship and Copa America were expected to serve as tiebreakers between the two players to determine the winner.
However, a successful Euro 2024 campaign shifted the balance in favour of Manchester City midfielder Rodri, who strengthened his candidacy by helping Spain win the tournament.
Spain and Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal also boosted his profile by winning titles for both club and country in 2024.
Though Rodri emerged as one of the frontrunners, many still believed Vinícius had the upper hand, with reports suggesting the Brazilian already anticipated taking home the accolade.
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Rodri ultimately claimed the award, with rumours circulating that Vinícius’s on-field behaviour may have influenced the decision.
Vinícius responded with a strong message to the organisers, suggesting he had no intention of changing his style of play.
Garcia reveals why Vinicius did not win 2024 Ballon d’Or award
Garcia has now offered insights into the factors that limited Vinícius’chances.
According to a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) by Madrid Xtra, he stated:
“Vinícius surely suffered from the presence of Bellingham and Carvajal in the top 5 because, mathematically, that took away some points from him.”
Rodri became the first Spanish player to win the Ballon d’Or since 1960.
