New Delhi: Real Madrid forward Rodrygo was notably absent from the 2024 Ballon d’Or nominee list, a decision that surprised many considering his vital role in the team’s La Liga and UEFA Champions League victories. The 23-year-old expressed his disappointment on social media, questioning the selection process.
The Brazilian striker was excluded from the list despite being a vital part of the Los Blancos team that won the La Liga and the UEFA Champions League in the previous campaign. Rodrygo has scored 17 goals and nine assists in 51 appearances for the Madrid.
Speaking about the same the 23-year-old striker told ESPN Brazil- “I was upset, I think I deserved it”. He even talked about the mocking post he made after the Ballon d’Or nominees’ announcement. Rodrygo’s concluding statement was “I don’t want to belittle the players who are there, I think they deserved it also. But I think I had a place in the 30.”
Rodrygo: “I made a somewhat mocking post (after the Ballon d’Or nominees announcement). There’s not much to say now. Everyone knows my indignation. Everyone has supported me, both in the national team and in Real Madrid. People sent me messages.” pic.twitter.com/3ij70hMw9a
— Madrid Universal (@MadridUniversal) September 9, 2024
The nominees are selected by France Football’s editorial team in collaboration with the Ballan d’Or ambassador and selected members of the media. Seven players from Madrid- Bellingham, Vinicius, Dani Carvajal, Federico Valverde, Antonio Rudiger, Toni Kross (now retired) and Kylian Mbappe (joined Real Madrid from PSG this summer) got a booking on the list.
Rodrygo was notably absent from the 30-man shortlist even after performing well and his statements clearly stated he is bothered about the same. Even Neymar Jr., the Brazilian star striker posted a story on Instagram about his exclusion.
“Minimum top 5 in the world!” – Neymar on Rodrygo after he wasn’t included in the top 30 Ballon d’Or nominations ❤️
(via @neymarjr) pic.twitter.com/FuT23xSk9S
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) September 5, 2024
Talking about his role in the Los Blancos he explained his thoughts. Highlighting his versatility for both club and country he cited that “Often, I’m just filling spaces, Is someone missing there? Put Rodrygo in. Is someone missing on the right? Rodrygo. Is someone missing as number nine? Rodrygo. That’s it. It may get in my way a little, but I’m a team player.”
Despite his omission, Rodrygo has started the current season well, with one goal and one assist in five matches. As the Ballon d’Or ceremony approaches on October 28, the debate about Rodrygo’s inclusion will likely continue.
Real Madrid’s Rodrygo expresses disappointment over Ballon d’Or snub. Despite impressive performance, the Brazilian striker fails to make the top 30 list. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
