"I think he’s going to win" - Carlo Ancelotti names Real Madrid star as his Ballon d'Or winner
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has backed his club's superstar, Vinicius Jr to win the Ballon d'Or this year. Ancelotti thinks the Brazilian has been brilliant over the last year and deserves the award more than any other player.
Speaking after Los Blancos' 5-2 win over Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday, October 22, Ancelotti praised Vinicius's performance as they came from behind to win the game. Notably, the Brazilian forward scored a second-half hattrick. The Italian tactician said in the post-match press conference:
"It's rare to see a player perform like Vinícius did in the second half, not just with the goals, but with an extraordinary energy, intensity, and character. I think he's going to win the Ballon d'Or for what he did last year, helping us win the Champions League, not for today's three goals, which will count towards next year's Ballon d'Or."
Talking about the fans booing the players, Ancelotti admitted that it motivates players like Vinicius Jr. He added that the boos are normal but racism is where things cross a line. He said (via beIN Sports):
"I think he is respected as he should be. People boo him because he can make a difference. The racism issue is being addressed. He's booed, and that's normal, but he is respected in this country."
Real Madrid came from 2-0 down to beat Borussia Dortmund 5-2 in the Champions League game at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Neymar backs Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr to win the Ballon d'Or this year
Vincius' compatriot and Brazil teammate, Neymar has also backed the Madrid star to win the Ballon d'Or this year. He said earlier in October this year (via MadridXtra):
"I love Vinicius. We have a beautiful relationship. He's a great friend that football has made me know. He had a wonderful season, I surely support him to win the Ballon d'Or. I think there's no one better than him. Vini deserves it, he's a fighter, he suffered a lot throughout his life. He surpassed all the criticism and now he's an idol, a great hero for us."
Neymar had also backed his countryman earlier this year, saying (via FotMob):
"Vinicius had a fantastic season. I love him. I will root for him to win the Ballon d'Or. I think there is no one to win it but him. We are with Vini. He deserves it because he's a fighter who suffered a lot throughout his life but he surpassed all the criticism. I'm very happy he is carrying the Brazil flag around the world."
Apart from Vinicius Jr, Real Madrid stars Jude Bellingham and Dani Carvajal are also in the running for the award. Manchester City's Rodri and Inter Milan's Lautaro Martinez are also among the contenders.