Manchester City star Rodri Hernandez’s recent Ballon d’Or win has sparked controversy in Spain, especially due to Real Madrid’s absence from the ceremony and conspiracy theories around Vinicius Junior missing out on the award. Many international fans saw Real Madrid’s reaction as in poor taste, and Rodri’s post-ceremony celebration added fuel to the fire.
Images from the celebration showed Rodri and friends singing “Ciao, Vinicius” to the tune of “Bella Ciao,” but Rodri downplayed the incident. “People have to understand that it is healthy rivalry, it is a private party. If we put a camera in each of our houses… I didn’t disrespect anyone, it’s just another rivalry. I have respect for Vinicius,” he explained to Cadena Cope.
Rodri also clarified that if he had been voting, he would have placed Dani Carvajal in second and Vinicius in third, adding an extra layer to the rivalry. It remains to be seen if Vinicius will respond when they next face each other, as sources say the Brazilian was deeply disappointed by missing out on the award.
Regarding his future, Rodri stated he is happy at Manchester City and not focusing on a move to either Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid. “I don’t know, I like to live in the present and I have a contract with my club. Closing or opening doors makes no sense. I’m still passionate about La Liga but the English league is special,” he added.
