Manchester City midfielder Rodri has sent a clear message to Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior following the Brazilian’s decision to refuse his entry to last month’s Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris, France.
Rodri stated that “he would not have acted in the same way” as Vinicius.
Vinicius had been considered the heavy favorite to win the 2024 Ballon d’Or after playing a key role in Real Madrid’s Champions League, La Liga and Spanish Super Cup victories last season.
But a leak in the run-up to the Ballon d’Or ceremony indicated that Rodri would take home the award after a brilliant year with both Manchester City and Spain.
Let us remember that the 28-year-old midfielder won both the Premier League and Euro 2024.
For this reason, Vinicius and the Real Madrid delegation canceled their trip to Paris in protest because their winger did not win the award ahead of Rodri.
Speaking to France Football, Rodri said: “When your value is recognized at a very high level, whether you are the final winner or not, it is good to come.
“In addition, there is also the collective aspect that is important. For example, Erling (Haaland) was in a better position than me to win last year. I wanted to come support him at a special moment.
“Therefore, when I made the decision to come, it was above all to enjoy this magnificent evening.”
When asked specifically about Vinicius’ decision to snub the event, Rodri said: “What do you want me to tell you?
“That I would have preferred everyone to be there? Of course he would have.
“The second, the third, the fourth, etc. were missing… I have to respect everyone’s decision. Even if I hadn’t acted the same way.”
<
