Ballon d’Or 2024: Neymar ‘rooting’ for Brazil ‘hero’ Vinicius Jr - ‘He has become a great idol’
Published 17/10/2024 at 13:27 GMT+1
Neymar does not believe any other player can win the 2024 Ballon d'Or other than Real Madrid and Brazil sensation Vinicius Jr after what has been a prolific year with Los Blancos and the national team. "He has become a great idol and a great hero for us," Neymar said of his compatriot. "I am very happy that he’s carrying this Brazilian flag around the world.”
‘He’s surpassed all expectations’ – Neymar backs ‘idol’ Vinicius Junior for Ballon d’Or win
Video credit: SNTV
Brazil legend Neymar has tipped “great idol” Vinicius Jr to collect a maiden Ballon d’Or award later this year after a sparkling 2024 for club and country.
The former Barcelona and PSG forward painstakingly missed out on the prestigious trophy during an era dominated by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
But he hopes the 24-year-old Vincius can help to bring the award back to Brazil for the first time since 2007 when AC Milan’s Kaka reigned supreme.
“We have a wonderful relationship, I love Vini,” Neymar revealed. “Vini is beyond, and he is a great friend to whom I was introduced by football.
“He had a great season, he certainly played a lot. I certainly will be rooting for him to win the Ballon d’Or, I don’t think there’s anyone else but him to win it.
“We hope that it comes back to Brazil soon and that it’s now with Vini, a guy who deserves it because he’s a hard worker and has suffered a lot throughout his life, but he’s surpassed all expectations and [coped with] all the criticism.
“Today, he has become a great idol and a great hero for us, so I am very happy, very happy that he’s carrying this Brazilian flag around the world.”
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The Real Madrid star has had an exceptional 2024, where he scooped up a third La Liga title and a second UEFA Champions League medal.
Vinicius scored in the 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley Stadium - his 24th goal of the 2023/24 campaign - leading Los Blancos to a record-extending 16th European title.
He was also part of the UEFA Super Cup-winning Madrid side, alongside fellow Ballon d’Or contender Jude Bellingham.
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Vinicius and Brazil came up short in their efforts to claim Copa America success after their defeat in the quarter-final to Uruguay during the summer.
Spain midfielder Rodri is also in the mix after his success with Manchester City and La Roja, but Vinicius' role in Madrid’s sensational campaign has made him the firm favourite to scoop up the prize.
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