Vinicius tipped above Rodri by Barcelona advisor in Ballon d’Or debate | OneFootball

Real Madrid should have had the defending Ballon d’Or winner in their ranks rightfully this season but a drastic turn of events ahead of the ceremony saw the accolade snatched away from them.

Vinicius Jr was the favourite to take home the individual honour with Jude Bellingham and Dani Carvajal also well-placed in the race.

Eventually, however, the trio took away points from each other such that none received the complete majority. Rodri, thus, walked away with the Ballon d’Or for his Euro 2024 and Premier League winning season.

Barcelona advisor speaks on the Ballon d’Or

Speaking to the media recently, Barcelona president Joan Laporta’s advisor Enric Masip was asked about his view on the Ballon d’Or verdict and who deserved the award.

Vinicius finished second in the Ballon d’Or race. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

The Spanish administrator stated that in his eyes, Rodri deserved the award but ironically then stated that Vinicius was arguably better than the Manchester City star.

“Rodri encompasses what the Ballon d’Or is, although Vinicius’ level has been very high.”

Masip then spoke on why he contradicted himself, saying, “But what is valued? If it is for talent, Vinicius could have won it. If that were the case, Messi would have won 13.”

When asked about the possibility of other Real Madrid players winning the award and why Vinicius did not deserve it either, he said,

“Carvajal? It could be, but no one gives it to a defender. And the scale is not clear. I really like the message that Rodri sends to the children. Not Vinicius’.”

Despite initially being disappointed, Vinicius has come back stronger and is determined to do better this year and claim the crown. His motivation, needless to say, will be vital if Real Madrid are to turn their situation around.

Source: MARCA