Ancelotti Backs Vinicius for Ballon d’Or Glory
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has thrown his weight behind Vinicius Junior as the potential winner of this year’s Ballon d’Or. The Italian tactician believes the Brazilian winger’s exceptional performances for Los Blancos during the season, which culminated in La Liga and Champions League titles, make him a strong contender for the prestigious award.
While acknowledging the standout contributions of teammates Jude Bellingham and Dani Carvajal, as well as the impressive form of Manchester City’s Rodri, Ancelotti singled out Vinicius for special praise. During a conversation with former Chelsea midfielder Mikel Obi on his podcast, the experienced coach emphasized Vinicius’ youthful exuberance, talent, and goal-scoring prowess.
“Vinicius Jr will win the Ballon d’Or, in my opinion,” Ancelotti declared. “Carvajal also did really well, he won La Liga, Champions League and scored in the final, won the Euros. But Vinicius… talented player, young, good image, won La Liga, won the Champions League scoring in the final and semi final. He scored two in Munich!”
Ancelotti was equally complimentary about Bellingham’s breakthrough season, describing the English midfielder as a “big surprise” who excelled in both the Premier League and the Champions League. He also recognized Rodri’s consistent brilliance in midfield.
The Ballon d’Or is set to be a fiercely contested award this year, with several deserving candidates vying for the top prize. However, Ancelotti’s endorsement of Vinicius has undoubtedly added fuel to the speculation surrounding the Brazilian’s chances of claiming football’s most coveted individual honor.