Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti and his players have expressed disappointment over Manchester City’s Rodri winning the 2024 Ballon d’Or, a title many expected to go to Vinicius Jr. Rodri, celebrated for his pivotal role in Manchester City’s Premier League title and Spain's Euro 2024 victory, was chosen as the year’s top player by prominent FIFA-affiliated journalists.
In response, Real Madrid boycotted the Paris awards ceremony, anticipating that Vinicius would not receive the trophy. Their absence left the Team of the Year award unclaimed, and Ancelotti missed out on personally receiving his Johan Cruyff trophy for Best Coach.
Ancelotti later posted on Instagram, subtly expressing his gratitude to supporters and notably thanking Vinicius and Dani Carvajal. Following his post, players like Eduardo Camavinga, Andrey Lunin, and Eder Militao voiced their support for Vinicius on social media, commending him as the best player in their eyes.
Though Vinicius reportedly called off his celebration plans after learning he placed second, the support from teammates and fans highlights his valued role in the club. Despite missing out on the Ballon d’Or, Vinicius’s accomplishments continue to resonate within Real Madrid’s community.