Barcelona ace Raphinha provides answer when asked if Vinicius Jr mentioned any expectation of winning 2024 Ballon d’Or during El Clasico
Raphinha has revealed that Vinicius Jr didn't mention Ballon d'Or 2024 during their conversation at the end of last month's El Clasico. The Real Madrid forward finished second behind Spain and Manchester City midfielder Rodri in the ranking for the coveted prize this year.
Los Blancos faced Barcelona on the eve of the Ballon d'Or ceremony at the Santiago Bernabeu last month. The Catalan giants ran riot, beating Real Madrid by a 4-0 scoreline at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Raphinha found the back of the net, but Vinicius had a relatively quiet outing. The 24-year-old was involved in a spat with Gavi during the game, where he allegedly mentioned he was going to win the big prize the following day.
Raphinha and Vinicius Jr were also seen chatting after the game, sparking talks of a possible discussion regarding the Ballon d'Or. However, the 27-year-old has now refuted those claims.
As cited by Tribuna, Raphinha insisted that the two talked about their families and life.
"No, he didn’t say that to me. After the game, we met, but we tried to talk about other things. In the end, we live football 24 hours a day, and when we see each other, we ask about our families, who know each other. We talk about life," said Raphinha.
Rodri was adjudged the winner following a fine campaign with Manchester City and Spain, where he won the Premier League, the UEFA Super Cup, and the Euro 2024.
What did the Ballon d'Or chief say about Vinicius Jr missing out on the award?
France Football chief editor Editor Vincent Garcia hinted that Vinicius Jr's teammates may have hurt his chances in the race for the Ballon d'Or. The Brazilian finished last campaign with 24 goals and 11 assists from 39 games across competitions. He won the league and Champions League double, while also getting his hands on the Supercopa de Espana.
However, speaking recently as cited by GOAL, Garcia explained that Jude Bellingham, who finished third, and Dani Carvajal, who was fourth, may have cost Vinicius the big prize.
"It was close. Vinícius probably suffered from the presence of Jude Bellingham and Dani Carvajal in top five," said Garcia.
Vinicius Jr has already scored eight goals and set up seven more from 15 games across competitions this season for Real Madrid.