Vinícius Júnior has decided not to attend the Ballon d'Or ceremony, which will be held tonight in Paris. Journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed that the Brazilian striker and Real Madrid already take it for granted that Vinícius is not going to be the winner of the award this year.
The player isn't the only one within the club to be absent from the event. President of Real Madrid Florentino Pérez, will also not be present. Likewise, coach Carlo Ancelotti and his new star Jude Bellingham have decided not to attend. This marks a clear position for Real Madrid, which won't have representation at one of the most important ceremonies in soccer.
Vinícius's reaction | Europa Press
Vinícius, one of the candidates to win the Ballon d'Or, has stood out this season with a brilliant performance. However, Real Madrid doesn't believe that the trophy will be awarded to him. The news has come as a surprise, since in previous editions the white team had always had representatives at this awards ceremony.
In fact, Vinícius himself reportedly told Gavi on Saturday that he would collect the Ballon d'Or on Monday. He and Gavi confronted each other and the Real Madrid player told him that he would collect the Ballon d'Or today.
Vinícius Júnior is Not Going
Vinícius has been one of the most important figures of last season in Europe. His speed, talent and presence in crucial moments has been remarkable. However, other names such as Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland seem to be the favorites this time. Messi shines for his triumph at the World Cup, and Haaland has had a historic season at Manchester City.
Real Madrid has previously criticized the criteria for the Ballon d'Or. The team has questioned the fact that some of its top players have not received the award in previous editions. This decision not to attend the ceremony could reflect the club's discontent.
Vinícius was the big favorite | Getty Images
Spaniard Wins Ballon d'Or
Surprise at the Ballon d'Or: Spanish midfielder Rodri wins the the prestigious award. He becomes the second Spaniard in history to win it after Luis Suárez, the legendary Barcelona player who won it in 1960.
Rodri is a key player for Manchester City and the Spanish national team. The Spaniard has been recognized for his performance this season, beating Brazilian Vinícius Júnior, who came in second. His Real Madrid teammate Jude Bellingham completed the podium in third place.
