Ancelotti Backs Real Madrid’s Ballon d’Or Boycott Amid Vinícius Jr. Snub
Carlo Ancelotti has given his backing to Real Madrid’s decision to boycott the Ballon d’Or ceremony, saying it wasn’t meant as a slight against Rodri, the Manchester City midfielder who won the award, but rather as a statement against Vinícius Júnior being snubbed from the top prize. The decision has caused a big stir in the football world with many questioning the fairness of the award’s criteria and Real Madrid’s stance.
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Ancelotti said: “Not to attend the Ballon d’Or Gala was not a wrong decision. We didn’t attend because we thought Vini Jr was the clear winner of the Ballon d’Or.”
He added: “Nothing against Rodri, I think he should have won it the year before.”
Real Madrid’s decision has sparked online debate, with fans and pundits split on the move. Some think the club was right to back Vinícius Júnior, who had an amazing season and was key to Real Madrid’s success, while others say individual awards should be respected regardless of club loyalty. The Ballon d’Or, awarded to the best player in the world every year, has been controversial for many years, with many questioning the transparency of the voting process and the influence of club and national team performances.
Rodri, who helped Manchester City win the treble last season, was widely regarded as one of the best midfielders in the world. Many felt his contributions deserved recognition and his win was long overdue. But Real Madrid felt Vinícius Júnior, who was instrumental in their La Liga and Champions League campaigns, was more deserving of the award.
This isn’t the first time Real Madrid has taken issue with the Ballon d’Or voting process. In previous years they have complained about biases in the selection process especially when their top players are ignored.
Fans are still debating whether Real Madrid was right or wrong to boycott. Some see it as a bold statement against the Ballon d’Or, others as an overreaction and a disservice to Rodri who had an incredible season.
See reactions below:
