Ballon d'Or: Lothar Matthäus Snubs Vinícius, Names His Top Pick for the Prestigious Award
- Legendary German midfielder Lothar Matthäus said Vinicius Junior does not deserve to win the Ballon d'Or
- As things stand, Vinicius Junior and Manchester City star Rodri are the perceived frontrunners for the accolade
- The prestigious individual award is set to be presented during a plush gala event in Paris on October 28, 2024
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Former Germany international Lothar Matthäus has stated that he would not give the Ballon d'Or to Real Madrid star Vinícius Júnior.
Vinícius believes he has edged out strong contenders, including teammates like Dani Carvajal, Jude Bellingham, and Kylian Mbappé, as well as Manchester City's standout Rodri, to claim the prestigious honour.
Source: UGC
Earlier this week, Marca claimed the winger had been informed that France Football would award him the prize for the best player of the year.
The 24-year-old has emerged as one of the world’s elite players, and it seems the football world is ready to recognise him accordingly.
Last season, Vinicius was pivotal in Real Madrid's UEFA Champions League run, contributing 11 goals (six scored and five assisted) while helping his team reach another European final.
His consistency, resilience, and ability to shine in key moments have made him a top contender for football's highest individual honour.
Matthäus: 'Rodri deserves the Ballon d'Or more'
However, German football legend Matthäus believes another player is more deserving of the award. In an interview with Bild via Sportskeeda, he stated:
"For me, Rodri deserves the Ballon d'Or more than Vinicius. He was the thinker and leader of the Euro cup champion Spain and also won the Premier [League] with Manchester City. He is the most outstanding player of the year.
"My podium is Rodri, Bellingham and Vinícius," he added.
It’s important to note that Matthäus favours Rodri largely because they share the same playing position the German once held during his career.
This is seen as why he even ranked Jude Bellingham ahead of Vinicius.
Matthäus won the Ballon d'Or in 1990.
Nike anticipating big win for Vinicius
Meanwhile, Madrid Universal reported that sportswear giant Nike, which currently sponsors the Brazilian star, is planning a special tribute to him.
A flagship store on Madrid’s Gran Via will reportedly open two days after the Ballon d'Or ceremony, featuring a space dedicated to Vini.
This tribute would place him alongside other Nike icons, such as Cristiano Ronaldo, further solidifying his status as one of football's current elite.
How does Ballon d'Or voting work?
With many players in contention this year, Legit.ng previously broke down the Ballon d'Or voting process.
It all begins with the editors of France Football revealing the shortlist of 30 nominees for each primary category.
This year’s nominees were announced on September 4, with the awards ceremony scheduled for October 28.
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