Former Real Madrid player Karim Benzema has spoken out about the 2024 Ballon d’Or, which narrowly slipped away from Vinicius Junior and into the hands of the Manchester City player Rodri. Speaking on El Chiringuito TV, the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner, who remains uncontroversial, did not mince his words.
The awarding of the 2024 Ballon d’Or is set to be one of the most controversial in history. While some past editions have stirred up considerable debate, this year’s choice continues to raise eyebrows. Many stars within and beyond the football world have been quick to criticise the journalists’ baffling votes, which seemingly penalised Vinicius Junior, the 24-year-old Real Madrid winger who did everything he could to win the 68th edition of France Football’s trophy. While some feel Rodri is also deserving of the title, Karim Benzema has made his position clear.
Benzema’s truths
In an interview with El Chiringuito TV, the 36-year-old French striker expressed his disappointment over the outcome of last Monday’s ceremony at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris. Known for his incisive comments, Karim Benzema stated that he doesn’t understand why the trophy wasn’t awarded to his former Real Madrid teammate, who captivated audiences time and time again last season.
“I saw what happened to Vinicius… I don’t want to talk about France Football or France,” said the 36-year-old French striker. “Vinicius is a player who has always put in tremendous effort and isn’t just focused on scoring goals. Last season, when Real won the Champions League, Vinicius was decisive in every match. So, I don’t think there’s anyone more deserving than him,” said KB9, who has been playing in Saudi Arabia since last season.
For Benzema, the Ballon d’Or should go to a player recognised by football fans, rather than to a player of no particular renown who has collected team trophies simply due to the strength of his team. “I have nothing against Rodri, who is a good player, but I’m sitting on my sofa, watching TV, and Rodri doesn’t do things that make me go ‘Wow’, whereas Vinicius has done so more than once. It’s a bit sad, and I feel bad for Vinicius, who deserves the Ballon d’Or,” added the former French international.
“He was sad”
Knowing Vinicius Junior well from their time together at Real Madrid between 2018 and 2023, Karim Benzema is confident that more grand opportunities will come for him to win the Ballon d’Or. While he revealed the young winger’s sadness, the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner hopes to see him silence his critics this season with spectacular performances.
“I hope he’s mentally strong. I spoke to Vinicius, and he’s resilient enough to keep working. One day, he’ll have it. Vinicius is a good lad. He’ll work hard, and one day, he’ll win the Ballon d’Or (…) I sent him a message, and he was sad. That’s normal. It’s difficult when everyone sees you winning the Ballon d’Or and then, at the last moment, a day or just hours before, you’re told you won’t be winning it. It’s very hard,” Benzema concluded.
The message has been sent. In any case, the debate around this award continues to spark discussion year after year. Given the situation, France Football must reassess its approach, particularly the voting process, as Pep Guardiola pointed out this Tuesday… It’s high time to put an end to this farce with voters who seem to lack any sense of logic.
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