Published 19:12 IST, July 18th 2024
Vinicius Faces A New Threat To His Ballon d'Or After Spain's Win in Euro 2024
Vinicius Jr's disappointing Copa America 2024 campaign meant that he is now no longer the clear favourite to win Ballon d'Or and faces a new threat.
Real Madrid and Brazil superstar Vinicius Jr looked almost certain to win the Ballon d'Or in 2024 after guiding Real Madrid to La Liga and Champions League glory in May.
However, a disappointing Copa America 2024 campaign with Brazil where they got knocked out to Uruguay in the Quarterfinals while on the other hand Spain winning the Euro 2024 and England reaching the finals has cast doubts over whether the Brazilian winger will win Ballon d'Or or not.
Who can challenge Vinicius Jr for Ballon d'Or in 2024?
While it was previously believed that Vinicius Jr's closest rival for the Ballon d'Or in 2024 was going to be his Real Madrid teammate Jude Bellingham who had an equally spectacular season.
However, Jude Bellingham has been leapfrogged by Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri after being named player of the tournament in Spain's Euro 2024 triumph.
Rodri enjoyed a great season with Manchester City by winning the Premier League. He has been the rock in central defensive midfield for both Spain and Manchester City throughout the season and is achieving Ballon d'Or shouts.
However, the counter argument states that outside of the Euros and Copa America, Vinicius Jr was the better player overall. Additionally, Rodri won the treble last season and he wasn't considered to win Ballon d'Or.
Ballon d'Or latest leaderboard
According to the latest live odds for Ballon d'Or 2024 winner by Score 90, Vinicius Jr holds a tiny margin over Rodri in the top spot.
Vinicius Jr is currently leading the race followed by Rodri and Jude Bellingham to round out the top 3. Spain and Real Madrid right back Dani Carvajal is also in the race alongside Lionel Messi for his Copa America win with Argentina.
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There remains no doubt that the winner of Ballon d'Or 2024 will definitely come between either Rodri or Vinicius Jr.
Updated 19:12 IST, July 18th 2024