Real Madrid’s Furious Reaction to Rodri’s Ballon d’Or Win Leaves Ancelotti Throwing Shade
Manchester City and their newly crowned Ballon d’Or winner Rodri have become the latest targets of Real Madrid’s frustration, as the Spanish club continues to voice its displeasure over Rodri’s win at the Paris ceremony earlier this month.
Madrid had expected a different outcome. News leaked that Vinicius Jr., their Brazilian star, was not the chosen winner, leading Real Madrid to pull their entire delegation from the event in protest. Confident in Vinicius’ chances, the club had even organized private celebrations, while Vinicius himself had flown in a party of 30-50 guests from Brazil. His sponsor, Nike, had reportedly lined up a glitzy evening with influencers to honor his anticipated victory.
When the award went to Rodri instead, Madrid’s frustration was clear—and it hasn’t faded. In a recent press conference ahead of Real Madrid’s Champions League clash with Milan, manager Carlo Ancelotti couldn’t resist a subtle jab. “I congratulate whoever won at the Ballon d’Or awards,” he said, before adding, “but my Ballon d’Or was won on June 1st, in the Champions League Final.”
Rodri, however, kept his cool when asked about Real Madrid’s boycott and absence from the ceremony. “They have their decision. They didn’t want to be here for their reasons. I accept that,” he commented. “I just focus on my club, my teammates, and the people who are here and happy to congratulate me.”
Former Manchester United player and outspoken pundit Gary Neville didn’t hold back in his criticism of Madrid’s snub, calling their reaction “absolutely outrageous.” Neville added, “The idea you try and take the glory away and pull the spotlight away from a player… Rodri’s respected all around the world and a good man. I just think he [Vinicius Jr.] is classless.”
For now, Rodri remains unfazed, keeping his attention on City’s ambitions, even as Madrid’s complaints continue to echo across Spain.
