Rodri has won the 2024 Ballon d'Or. However, a Real Madrid legend has said it was undeserved, by naming one thing the Spain midfielder lacks.
The entire Real Madrid community is coming together to show their support for Vinicius Junior. The Brazil international seemed destined to lift the Ballon d'Or, but instead the golden ball was handed to Rodri of Manchester City.
It is impossible to deny Rodri of his talent. Real Madrid fans can admit this considering he is no longer tied to the club who shan't be named. However, when compared to Vinicius Junior, it is not unjust to say that Rodri did not deserve to win the Ballon d'Or.
Real Madrid legend takes dig at Rodri for what Ballon d’Or winner lacks
Karim Benzema has endorsed Vinicius Junior as his Ballon d'Or winner. The Real Madrid legend has praised Rodri for his ability but he has said that Vinicius Junior is understandably hurt, considering it was him who deserved to lift the golden ball.
In his own words, Karim Benzema said: “I spoke to Vini, he’s sad… it’s also normal. He deserved to win the Ballon d’Or. I’ve nothing against Rodri, good player but I’m in my sofa watching TV and Rodri doesn’t do anything that makes you say: wow!”
So, Karim Benzema has applied an emotional argument to campaign for Vini's right to have won the Ballon d'Or. It is true, it is much easier to fall in love with the game while watching Vini, rather than Rodri.
While the point of the Ballon d'Or is not to award it based solely on the best skills, it is an interesting comparison. When the parameters are as close as Rodri and Vini, then emotion must be taken into account.
This is the reason why many were surprised to see Rodri lift the award, rather than Vinicius Junior. It seemed set in stone that the Brazilian had won the award, particularly given the incredible displays he put in throughout 2023/24, most notably the Champions League final.