This Friday, at the Atlantis Hotel in La Palmera, Dubai, the Globe Soccer Awards celebrated the best talents in world football. Vinicius Jr was the star of the show, but Rodri’s conspicuous absence raised a number of questions.
Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr received two major awards on Friday at the Globe Soccer Awards ceremony in Dubai. The Auriverde winger, who recently won FIFA’s The Best award, was voted best player in the world and best striker. These trophies crown an exceptional year for the Brazilian, who expressed his gratitude during his rather poignant speech.
‘I’m very happy to receive this award alongside so many great players. It represents the hard work of an entire career. I thank my family, my team-mates, Flamengo, the Brazilian national team and Real Madrid,’ he said. Referring to his role models, Vinicius added: ‘My idol is Cristiano Ronaldo. It’s an honour to have him encouraging me. His words mean a lot to me. The award reinforces Vinicius’ position as one of the most influential players of his generation, despite the fact that he was overlooked by France Football for the Ballon d’Or 2024, which was awarded to Rodri, the Spanish midfielder from Manchester City.
Rodri’s turn to miss out – controversy ensues
Rodri Hernández, winner of the last Ballon d’Or, was expected in Dubai for this gala, as he was also announced as one of the favourites. However, as at previous FIFA The Best Awards, the Manchester City midfielder was conspicuous by his absence. Injured since September, Rodri did not make the trip, triggering criticism of his behaviour. His absence was seen as a stark contrast to his past statements, in which he advocated sportsmanship. Some see it as a deliberate attempt to avoid a ceremony where he knew he would not be honoured.
🗣️ Rodri cuando ganó el balón de oro: "Cuando se te reconoce tu valor a un nivel muy alto, está bien acudir, seas el vencedor final o no. Hay que saber ganar, pero saber perder también es importante."
— REAL MADRID FANS 🤍 (@AdriRM33) December 27, 2024
ÉL no ha acudido a la Gala THE BEST, NI LOS GOBLE SOCCER AWARDS, HIPOCRESÍA 😂 pic.twitter.com/BzxKZw52I8
After Vinicius, Real Madrid dominated the evening. Jude Bellingham was voted best midfielder in the world ahead of a visibly annoyed Lamine Yamal, Carlo Ancelotti best coach, and the Madrid club was awarded the title of best club in the world. Thibaut Courtois also received an award for his career. All of which has consolidated the Merengue institution’s image as a global benchmark. In a video broadcast at the ceremony, Florentino Pérez said: ‘This year will be remembered for our 15th Champions League and the five titles we have won. Congratulations to the players and all those who make Real Madrid great’.
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