World Footballer
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Real Madrid star Vinicjusz Junior was chosen the best football player in the world at the FIFA gala in Doha. The Brazilian will replace Lionel Messi, who was also nominated for this event. He also defeated the winner of the European Championship Rodri with Manchester City winning the Ballon d’Or, which led to Vinicius and Real Madrid boycotting the event.
“It’s impossible to stand on this stage right now,” Vinicius Junior said. “I come from a small village and escaped poverty and crime. Now I’m here.” The Brazilian scored 48 points, beating Rodri (43) and his teammate Judy Bellingham (37). FIFA organized the event on the eve of the Intercontinental Cup final between Real Madrid and Pachuca. Carlo Ancelotti won the award for best head coach at “The Best” gala. Xabi Alonso Bayer Leverkusen took second place.
Real Madrid’s Ballon d’Or boycott sparked controversy
In October, Real Madrid and Vinicius Junior decided to boycott the Ballon d’Or award. They both missed the ceremony, which took place at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, after news of Rodri’s award win leaked. This decision caused sharp criticism towards Real and Vinicius.
Some people considered Vinicius the favorite to win the trophy. After all, he won the championship and the Champions League with Real Madrid. However, the striker, who encountered racism in Spain, is also viewed critically. His penchant for theater is not well received by many, which was highlighted by his absence from the Ballon d’Or gala. The rules for the FIFA “Best” award are different from the Ballon d’Or, which is decided by journalists. During the FIFA award ceremony, coaches, captains, journalists and fans of national teams take part in voting.
