Vinicius Jr. is the 2024 Footballer of the Year, that was what most football fans thought before the award was announced. But Manchester City’s Spanish midfielder Rodri won the Ballon d’Or by changing all their ideas. That begs the question, why didn’t Vinicius get the award? Answered by the organizers.
Rodri beat three Real Madrid players to win the Ballon d’Or, awarded by French magazine ‘France Football’ in Paris on Monday night (October 28). Apart from Vinicius, he lost Jude Bellingham and Dani Carvajal. Basically, because these three players of Real are in the top five, the award was not won by Vini’s luck.
Speaking to French sports daily Lequip, France Football editor-in-chief Vansa Garcia said that Vinicius received a few points less in the voting due to club teammates Bellingham and Carvajal being in the top five.
“Mathematically they (Bellingham and Carvajal) have taken some points,” he said. Three or four Real players were ranked among the best in the world and the jury divided their votes among these players. As a result, Rodri has benefited.’
Rodri became the first Spanish player to win the Ballon d’Or after six decades. The performance was also quite brilliant last season. He played a major role in City’s fourth consecutive Premier League win. He also played an important role in winning the title of Spain in the European Championship.
Garcia also said that the over-enthusiastic media coverage of the Ballon d’Or is wrong. No one knew about the outcome. He commented, ‘No one knew, not Real or City. The feeling that Rodri had on stage is proof of this. He knew nothing. It is this passion of his that pushes away all speculations.’
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Interview between Time.news Editor and Football Expert
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with renowned football analyst, Dr. Carlos Mira, to dissect the recent Ballon d’Or results. Dr. Mira, thank you for joining us!
Dr. Mira: Thank you for having me! It’s a thrilling time in football, and there’s much to discuss.
Editor: Absolutely! The big surprise this year was Rodri winning the Ballon d’Or instead of the widely anticipated Vinicius Jr. What are your initial thoughts on this outcome?
Dr. Mira: It’s certainly a twist that caught many by surprise. Rodri’s victory underscores the importance of individual contributions within a successful team dynamic. He arrived at this moment by significantly impacting Manchester City’s success, particularly at a pivotal level in the midfield.
Editor: Many fans felt that Vinicius Jr. was a shoo-in for the award. Can you elaborate on why the organizers, particularly Vansa Garcia of France Football, suggested that Vinicius didn’t receive sufficient votes?
Dr. Mira: Certainly! According to Garcia, the presence of multiple Real Madrid players—specifically Jude Bellingham and Dani Carvajal—complicated the voting. With three players from the same club ranking highly, their votes essentially cannibalized each other, which might have led to fewer points for Vinicius.
Editor: That’s an interesting point. So, it seems that the collective strength of Real Madrid players inadvertently worked against Vinicius in the end. How do you see that affecting team dynamics and future awards?
Dr. Mira: It adds an intriguing layer to team strategy and individual recognition. Players like Vinicius must excel in an environment where fellow teammates are also in the spotlight. This could lead to more competition within the team, which might push players to elevate their performances even further, but it could also create a dangerous divide if not managed carefully.
Editor: Would you say that Rodri’s win marks a shift in the criteria for what is valued in choosing Ballon d’Or winners?
Dr. Mira: Quite possibly. Traditionally, awards like these have heavily favored forwards and their goal-scoring ability. Rodri’s triumph seems to indicate a recognition of the role that controls play in a team’s success. It suggests that voters are valuing tactical influence and midfield mastery more than before.
Editor: And where do you envision the future of these awards heading, especially in light of this balloting method impacting results?
Dr. Mira: I believe we’re going towards a more holistic view of football excellence. As analytics and data play a larger role in the game, I expect more emphasis on overall contributions rather than purely goals and assists. It’s an exciting evolution that could bring more deserving names into the limelight.
Editor: It’ll be fascinating to see that unfold. Lastly, do you think Vinicius will remain a strong contender for future awards?
Dr. Mira: Absolutely. Vinicius has immense talent and continues to grow in his game. If he can maintain his current form and contribute significantly to Real Madrid’s success, he will undoubtedly be in the conversation for future accolades.
Editor: Thank you for your insightful analysis, Dr. Mira. It’s been a pleasure discussing this compelling topic with you!
Dr. Mira: The pleasure is mine! Always a joy to talk about the beautiful game.