Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti has thrown his support behind winger Vinicius Jr.’s bid to win the 2024 Ballon d’Or.
This comes following an exceptional performance that saw the Brazilian score a hat trick to lead a dramatic comeback against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League on Tuesday.
Much like his standout showing on June 1, when he scored against Dortmund in Real Madrid’s 2-0 victory in the Champions League final at Wembley, Vinicius once again tormented the German side, sparking a stunning second-half revival at the Bernabeu.
At halftime, Dortmund appeared poised for a historic win in Madrid, holding a 2-0 advantage. However, the momentum shifted when Antonio Rudiger pulled one back for the home side in the 60th minute. Vinicius then netted the equalizer before Lucas Vazquez put Madrid ahead 3-2.
To seal the victory, Vinicius scored two more goals, claiming the match ball and delivering a performance that solidified his reputation as one of the world’s best players. Many now see him as a frontrunner for the prestigious Ballon d’Or, with the award ceremony set to take place in Paris on Monday.
“I can say it’s rare to see a player who plays a second half like the one he did. Apart from the goals – [someone who plays] with energy and intensity, with an extraordinary character,” Ancelotti praised after the match. Vinicius, for his part, expressed his desire to “continue with Real Madrid forever.”
Ancelotti was confident in Vinicius’ chances of winning the Ballon d’Or, not only this year but also in 2025 if his form continues. “He’s going to win the Ballon d’Or, not because of tonight, but because of last season. They are three goals that will serve him for the next Ballon d’Or,” the Italian remarked, voicing his support for the Brazilian’s pursuit of football’s highest individual honor.
When asked about Vinicius’ reception in Spain, Ancelotti acknowledged the player’s impact, despite challenges such as racist abuse. “They whistle at him because he can make a difference,” Ancelotti said, before adding, “I think he’s respected in this country.”
Reflecting on Real Madrid’s shaky start, Ancelotti attributed it to a lack of intensity. “We had chances, and hit the post twice, but we were timid. We showed that we can play with more energy, with more risk. We have to exert pressure, we have the capacity to do it,” he insisted, as Madrid now prepares for a highly anticipated clash against FC Barcelona this weekend.
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