Reports from Spain hint that Manchester City‘s Rodri has clinched the 2024 Ballon d’Or, stirring up controversy at Real Madrid.
According to reports in France, Real Madrid has abruptly canceled its delegation’s flight to Paris for the Ballon d’Or ceremony. This decision follows an alleged leak that suggests Rodri has been named the winner, which has left Real Madrid officials fuming.
Rodri has had a stellar year, guiding Manchester City to a fourth-straight Premier League title, along with UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup wins. He also claimed the Euro 2024 Player of the Tournament title while leading Spain to victory.
However, Real Madrid firmly believes Vinicius Jr. deserves the award after his pivotal role in another Champions League triumph. According to RMC, Vinicius’ camp is convinced the leak is accurate and that Rodri will be the first City player to capture the Ballon d’Or. Real Madrid’s directors, reportedly in agreement, are said to be furious, with club president Florentino Perez calling off their planned attendance.
In addition to Vinicius, Real Madrid stars Jude Bellingham, Dani Carvajal, Toni Kroos, Antonio Rudiger, and Federico Valverde are also nominated for the Ballon d’Or. Youngster Arda Guler is up for the Kopa Trophy, goalkeeper Andriy Lunin is nominated for the Yashin Trophy, and the club itself is competing for Men’s Club of the Year. Meanwhile, Real’s summer signing Kylian Mbappe is in contention for the Ballon d’Or based on his achievements with Paris Saint-Germain.
Adding to the stakes, Carlo Ancelotti is nominated for Men’s Coach of the Year, meaning a Real Madrid boycott would spark major controversy for the ceremony’s organizers, France Football.
