Ballon d’Or 2024: Steve McManaman expresses his understanding of the uproar from Real Madrid, stating he was ‘taken aback’ that Rodri won the award over Vinicius Junior.

**Rodri’s Ballon d’Or Win Sparks Controversy as Real Madrid Boycotts Ceremony**

In a surprising turn of events, Steve McManaman has expressed his astonishment at Rodri being awarded the Ballon d’Or for 2024. He suggested that Real Madrid’s disappointment is entirely justified. The former Liverpool star noted that while Rodri’s achievements are commendable, many, including himself, expected Vinicius Junior to take home the prestigious trophy.

Real Madrid opted to boycott the ceremony held in Paris on Monday, following the announcement that Manchester City’s Rodri had narrowly edged out their Champions League-winning duo, Vinicius Junior and Dani Carvajal, for the accolade. This decision underscores the club’s dissatisfaction with the outcome.

Vinicius Junior had been the bookmakers’ favorite leading up to the event, having played a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s remarkable 2023/24 season. The Brazilian winger scored twice in the Champions League semi-final against Bayern Munich and netted another in the final, helping his side secure a 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund.

Dani Carvajal, who also had a strong case for the award, finished behind his Real teammates Vinicius and Jude Bellingham at the star-studded ceremony. Carvajal not only scored in the Champions League final but also contributed significantly to Real Madrid’s 15th Champions League title and their La Liga triumph. His performances were further highlighted by his role in Spain’s Euro 2024 success.

Despite these achievements, the Ballon d’Or was awarded to Rodri, who had an outstanding season as Manchester City clinched their fourth consecutive Premier League title and played a crucial part in Spain’s European victory. This decision took many by surprise, including McManaman, who remarked, “I think he’s had an incredible season.. but we all thought Vinicius Junior would win the award after his exploits last year.”

Real Madrid’s frustration was palpable, with the club stating to AFP, “Ballon d’Or-UEFA does not respect Real Madrid. And Real Madrid does not go where it is not respected.” The club felt that the criteria used to justify Rodri’s win, particularly his success in Euro 2024, should have favored Carvajal, who had a more comprehensive trophy haul in the previous campaign.

McManaman echoed this sentiment, questioning the voting criteria and asserting that Carvajal had arguably the best season of any player. “If Rodri was to win the Ballon d’Or for his exploits in the Euros, then they almost felt that Dani Carvajal is more worthy of winning it,” he stated. “He won the league, he won the Champions League, and he scored in the Champions League final.”

The former England international added, “I’d like to know what the criteria of the voting system is, because it’s all very secretive.” While he congratulated Rodri on his achievement, he acknowledged the uproar surrounding the decision and sympathized with Real Madrid’s perspective.

In a show of solidarity, Vinicius Junior took to social media platform X to voice his discontent, stating, “I’ll do it 10x if I have to. They’re not ready.” His comments reflect the sentiments of many within the club, as they continue to grapple with the fallout from this controversial Ballon d’Or result.