“You deserved it bro” - IShowSpeed sends message to Vinicius Jr after 2024 Ballon d’Or snub
YouTuber IShowSpeed has lent his support to Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior after the latter missed out on the 2024 Ballon d'Or. The Brazilian forward came second behind winner Rodri in the final rankings, with fellow Los Blancos star Jude Bellingham completing the podium.
The Spanish midfielder became the first Manchester City player to win the coveted award on Monday (October 28) following an impressive campaign with club and country. Rodri won the Premier League and the UEFA Super Cup with the Cityzens last season and also lifted Euro 2024 with La Roja over the summer.
Meanwhile, Vinicius Junior was equally decisive for Real Madrid, helping the club win the LaLiga title, the Champions League, and the Spanish Supercup. He registered 24 goals and 11 assists from 39 games across competitions last season.
However, it wasn't enough for the 24-year-old to win his first Ballon d'Or, with France Football choosing Rodri on the basis of voting from journalists. The decision has raised much controversy, with fans taking to social media to express their opinion.
IShowSpeed shared a picture of him with the Brazilian on social media, stating:
"u deserved it bro."
Real Madrid were also unimpressed by the verdict. The LaLiga giants learned of the decision earlier in the day and the Los Blancos contingent didn't travel to the Theatre du Chatalet for the Ballon d'Or ceremony.
Can Vinicius be in the running for 2025 Ballon d'Or?
Vinicius Junior was outstanding last season for Real Madrid, so he has every right to be frustrated with the Ballon d'Or snub. His place in the team initially came under threat this campaign following Kylian Mbappe's arrival this summer.
However, Vini's form prompted Carlo Ancelotti to use the Frenchman through the middle this season. The Brazilian has already registered eight goals and seven assists from 15 goals across competitions.
While he couldn't have an impact on the El Clasico, the player was outstanding last week against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League. Vinicius scored a hat-trick, helping his team secure a 5-2 comeback win.
The Brazilian has registered 2.4 dribbles and two key passes per game and has been fouled 2.8 times per 90 minutes this season in the league. He should now use the Ballon d'Or snub as a motivation to hit a higher gear this campaign.
Should he continue this way, the player is likely to be in the mix to win the coveted award next year.