Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr. responded to five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo’s claims that the Brazilian should have won the 2024 edition. The 2024 Ballon d’Or awards ended in controversy, after Vini was snubbed in favor of Manchester City midfielder Rodri.
Vinicius Jr. and Cristiano Ronaldo were both present at the Globe Soccer Awards ceremony in Dubai. The 24-year-old forward was recognized for his achievements, as he won the Best Player and Forward of the Year awards. Cristiano, who was the recipient of the Best Middle East Player, went on to surprisingly claim that Vini deserved to win the 2024 Ballon d’Or, over Rodri. He expressed that ‘unfair’ treatment was meted out towards the talented Brazilian forward, who had recorded 37 goal contributions last season.
Responding to his idol’s comments, Vinicius Jr. beamed with pride as he was endorsed by the Portuguese legend. He went on to exclaim that if Cristiano Ronaldo recognizes his talent and feels that he is the best player, then he surely is the best.
Moreover, he added that it is an honor for him to be praised by Ronaldo, who has achieved great things at Real Madrid. Vinicius Jr. has taken over Ronaldo’s iconic number seven jersey, and will surely be hoping to emulate the Portuguese star.
If Cristiano that’s what says, then I will choose to believe that I am the best. He is my idol. And it is an honor for me to receive the award in front of them.
Vinicius Jr. on Cristiano Ronaldo’s claims (H/T CBS Sports)
🚨✨ Vinicius Jr: “Cristiano Ronaldo’s words about the Ballon d’Or? If Cristiano said I’m the best, then I am!”. pic.twitter.com/L4vNiE3DKe
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 27, 2024
Nonetheless, Vinicius Jr., despite the Ballon d’Or setback, has ended the year on a high. He has won two major individual awards, including the FIFA’s Best Men’s Player award. Apart from him, Jude Bellingham also shone at the Globe Soccer awards, winning the Best Midfielder and Diego Maradona awards.
Vinicius Jr. set to sign a new contract at Real Madrid, aims to match Kylian Mbappe’s salary
Real Madrid are reportedly poised to initiate negotiations with Vinicius Jr.’s agents, in order to tie him down at the club with a new long-term contract. The Brazilian forward’s current contract runs until 2027. The club will be hoping to make him sign a new deal by the end of the ongoing season.
Vinicius’ agent Frederico Pina is reportedly eyeing a massive salary increase for the player. This would put him at par with the club’s highest earner, Kylian Mbappe. The club will also be hoping to secure the forward’s future, amid interest from clubs in the Saudi PL. Al-Ahli was reportedly interested in signing him this summer, but his massive €1 billion release clause posed a challenge.
Moreover, Vini has played pivotal role in the team’s success over the past few seasons. He may sign a new contract that lasts until 2030. A long-term contract with over €1 billion, including salaries and bonuses, might be offered to Vinicius Jr.
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