Karim Benzema Claims Vinicius Jr Was Robbed in 2024 Ballon d’Or Won by Rodri

• Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri was named the 2024 Ballon d'Or winner, but the award was shrouded in controversy
• Vinicius Junior was seen as the favourite to take the award, but after learning he wouldn't win, he boycotted the ceremony
• His former teammate, Karim Benzema, appeared to suggest that the Brazilian was robbed after his chat with the winger

The 2024 Ballon d'Or awards were full of drama and controversy.

Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior was expected to win, but he boycotted the ceremony after learning Manchester City star Rodri would win.

Karim Benzema, Vini Jr's former teammate, believes the Brazilian should've won the award.

Real Madrid and Vinicius Jr decided to boycott the ceremony, a decision that received strong criticism from fans.

Read also

How Barcelona stars celebrated Rodri winning Ballon d'Or over Vinicius Junior

Benzema shares chat with Vini Jr

The Al-Ittihad striker played with Vinicius Jr at Real Madrid and won the Ballon d'Or in 2022.

The Frenchman had a chat with the 24-year-old winger, suggesting that he was robbed.

“I spoke to Vini, he’s sad… it’s also normal. He deserved to win the Ballon d’Or," he said via Fabrizio Romano.

“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!”

The Brazil star was incredible in the 2023/24 season. He registered 24 goals and 11 assists, helping Real Madrid win La Liga and the Champions League, per Transfermarkt.

Rodri, on the other hand, had a sensational campaign for Manchester City and Spain. He was influential in Man City's historic fourth Premier League title in a row and led Spain to the 2024 Euros crown.

Read also

Real Madrid Star Congratulates Rodri After Beating Vinicius to Ballon d'Or

Ballon d'Or robberies

Over the years, the Ballon d'Or has had several controversies. As Briefly News reported earlier, players who deserved to win the award were snubbed.

In the 21st century, Thierry Henry, Frank Riobery, and Robert Lewandowski are prime examples of players who were 'robbed'.

How Rodri won the 2024 Ballon d'Or

In another report, Briefly News broke down how Rodri beat Vinicius Junior to win the 2024 Ballon d'Or award.

Real Madrid was left red-faced after their Brazilian superstar was ignored for the award. The voters consider three criteria before deciding on the winner.

Source: TUKO.co.ke