During a press conference following Real Madrid’s victory over Pachuca FC in the Intercontinental Cup final, Vinicius Junior sent a subtle message to the France Football jury responsible for Ballon d’Or voting.
Crowned FIFA The Best Player of the Year 2024 last Tuesday, Vinicius Junior proved the next day why he deserved the honour. Starting in Real Madrid’s attack for the final against the Mexican side Pachuca FC, the Brazilian winger delivered a stellar performance. Setting up the opening goal scored by Kylian Mbappé, Vini caused numerous problems for the Mexican defence and capped his night with a goal in the closing moments. Named MVP of both the final and the tournament, he faced the media with a big smile.
In the grand press room of Lusail Stadium, Vinicius Junior expressed his delight over a week in which he collected no fewer than four trophies. “It has been a very pleasant and important week for me. The players at Real Madrid support me every day.” Reflecting on the match, which Real Madrid largely controlled after a shaky start, the dynamic Brazilian took the opportunity to send a pointed remark to the France Football voters for the Ballon d’Or.
“Those who didn’t vote for me will change their minds”
According to Vini, missing out on some votes hasn’t affected his mindset. “Real Madrid is the best team in the world. My teammates support me, and I’m here to play for them, to give my all, and to defend the most important shirt in the world. I live every day with serenity. I’ve always worked hard and put in the effort. People who didn’t vote for me won’t change the way I think, nor what my teammates say about me every day,” he said before adding further.
“I never lowered my head (after missing out on the 2024 Ballon d’Or). Those who didn’t vote for me will change their minds.” This strong statement speaks volumes about the Brazilian player’s determination, who seems poised for another stellar season with Real Madrid.
With Rodrygo Goes, Kylian Mbappé, and Carlo Ancelotti all praising him after his performance against Pachuca, Vini has every reason to feel on top of the world. Here’s hoping the new year brings more success to the 24-year-old star, who is still working on improving his behaviour to win everyone over completely.
It should be noted that after the Pachuca match, Vinicius will miss Real Madrid’s final match of the year next Sunday (against Sevilla FC). Having been shown a yellow card against Rayo Vallecano last Saturday, the Brazilian international is suspended. He is set to return on January 3rd against Valencia CF.
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