Manchester City’s goalkeeper, Ederson, has revealed the player he believes should win the coveted 2024 Ballon d’Or. In a surprising move, Ederson has chosen not to back his City teammate Rodri, despite the midfielder being considered one of the frontrunners for the award. Instead, the 31-year-old has thrown his support behind his fellow Brazilian, Vinicius Junior.
During an interview on TNT Sports Brazil, Ederson made it clear that he is rooting for the Real Madrid winger to take home the prestigious award. “I am rooting for Vini Jr. to win the Ballon d’Or. I hope he wins it,” Ederson expressed, showing his support for his compatriot as the world eagerly awaits the winner’s announcement on October 28.
The last Brazilian to win the Ballon d’Or was Kaka in 2007, and Ederson believes that Vinicius Junior has what it takes to end Brazil’s long wait for another winner. For over a decade, the award has eluded Brazilian players, with European stars dominating the accolade. However, with Vinicius’ rise in prominence at Real Madrid, many see him as a worthy contender to bring the Ballon d’Or back to the South American nation.
Vinicius Junior’s performances over the past year have been nothing short of remarkable. The forward has established himself as one of the best attackers in world football, dazzling fans with his speed, flair, and technical ability. His contributions to Real Madrid’s success, including his decisive role in their Champions League campaigns, have elevated his status on the global stage. As a result, many football fans and pundits alike are hopeful that he will finally break the 17-year drought for Brazil at the Ballon d’Or.
Rodri, on the other hand, has also enjoyed an exceptional year, playing a pivotal role in Manchester City’s treble-winning campaign. The Spanish midfielder was instrumental in City’s dominance last season, with his crucial goals and rock-solid performances in midfield helping the club secure the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League. His efforts have made him one of the top candidates for the Ballon d’Or, with many City fans and football enthusiasts expecting him to be a serious contender for the award.
Despite Rodri’s impressive achievements, Ederson’s preference for Vinicius Junior highlights the camaraderie and pride among Brazilian players, who often rally behind their own. Vinicius, still young and with many years ahead of him, is seen as the future of Brazilian football, and his potential Ballon d’Or win would signify a return to the spotlight for Brazilian stars on the world stage.
The Ballon d’Or has long been one of football’s most prestigious awards, given to the best player in the world based on their performances over the past year. Traditionally, the award has been dominated by European players, with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo winning the majority of the accolades in the past two decades. For Brazil, a country with a rich history of producing football legends like Pelé, Romário, and Ronaldo, the Ballon d’Or has always held special significance. A win for Vinicius would not only be a personal triumph but a moment of pride for the entire country.
As the countdown to the Ballon d’Or ceremony continues, football fans worldwide are eager to see who will be crowned the best player in the world for 2024. With Rodri, Messi, Erling Haaland, and Vinicius Junior all in contention, it promises to be one of the most closely contested races in recent years.
Ederson’s backing of Vinicius Junior adds another layer of intrigue to the buildup, especially considering his City teammate Rodri’s strong candidacy. It speaks to the deep bonds within the Brazilian football community and the excitement surrounding the possibility of seeing one of their own lifting the Ballon d’Or again.
In the end, no matter who walks away with the prize, it is clear that both Rodri and Vinicius have had outstanding seasons worthy of recognition. However, for Ederson and Brazilian fans, the hope is that Vinicius will follow in Kaka’s footsteps and bring the Ballon d’Or back to Brazil after a 17-year wait. All eyes will be on the ceremony on October 28 to see if Vinicius Junior can fulfill that dream and etch his name in football history.
