While Vinícius Jr. was recognized yesterday by FIFA as the best player in the world, Carlo Ancelotti made an unexpected statement about Kylian Mbappé that may leave the Brazilian star frustrated.
Denied the 2024 Ballon d’Or, Vinícius Jr. was crowned FIFA’s The Best in Doha yesterday. This prestigious accolade confirms the Brazilian winger as the world’s top footballer. Throughout the year, the Real Madrid star has dazzled fans and critics alike.
Carrying the Madrid club in La Liga and especially in the Champions League, Vinícius clearly stood out. He ended the season as the Champions League’s best player and helped Real Madrid lift the trophy once again, scoring in the final against Borussia Dortmund.
However, to everyone’s surprise, Vinícius only secured second place in the Ballon d’Or rankings, finishing behind Rodri. This outcome angered not only Real Madrid but also its devoted fanbase. Yesterday, Vinícius regained his smile as he was honored with FIFA’s The Best award. Real Madrid should feel proud to have the planet’s best player on their roster. Yet Carlo Ancelotti appears to have a different perspective.
Vinícius Jr is the best player in the world. pic.twitter.com/Em6VJWEBkp
— َ (@rmngifs) December 17, 2024
The World’s Best Player? Ancelotti Backs Mbappé Over Vinícius Jr.
This Wednesday, Real Madrid will face Pachuca in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final. Coinciding with the FIFA The Best gala where Vinícius Jr. was crowned, Carlo Ancelotti appeared at a pre-match press conference.
Speaking to the media, the Italian coach unexpectedly named Kylian Mbappé as the best player in the world.
“As I’ve said before: I understand the criticisms. Real Madrid had just won the Champions League and La Liga, and this summer, we signed the best player in the world. Naturally, everyone assumed it would be a walk in the park for us, but football is about fighting for every match. You can’t control results — sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. The criticism stems from there. After a fantastic season, the best player in the world arrived. One plus one equals two, but football doesn’t always work that way,” he initially remarked.
“Kylian is a fantastic player, and honestly, I don’t think he’s even at his best yet. He has improved in recent matches but hasn’t reached his peak. He can play anywhere: as a striker, on the left wing—wherever you place him. With his quality, he can thrive in any position,” Ancelotti added.
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