Brazilian superstar Vinicius Junior has been given advanced notice that he will pick up one of the world’s most illustrious soccer honors in 2024, according to reports.
It emerged on Monday evening that Real Madrid’s star was told that he would be winning the prestigious Ballon d’Or at the Paris ceremony at the end of next month.
Vinicius Junior Pips Teammate to Honor
Two of Real Madrid’s biggest stars were the front-runners for the honor this year, with Jude Bellingham having been the odds-makers’ favorite throughout the domestic campaign.
However, England’s failure to win EURO 2024 ultimately looks to be telling for the midfielder, as the star’s price drifted after Spain’s win in Berlin.
Rodri’s price to win the Ballon d’Or shortened after Spain’s success, as the Man City star emerged as the leading contender for the prize after another stunning campaign for club and country.
However, recent reports appear to indicate that voters have overlooked his performances in favor of siding with Vinicius, who was integral to Real’s success in Spain and aboard in 2023-24.
Coming-of-Age Campaign
Following the departure of Karim Benzema in 2023, pressure was put on Vinicius Jr to be the man to take Los Blancos back to the top of the Spanish and European game.
The Brazilian formed an excellent relationship with Bellingham on the field, and contributed 20 goals and assists in 26 league outings last term, as Real regained the La Liga crown.
However, the performance that likely ensured that the 24-year-old got the nod for the Ballon d’Or came at Wembley at the end of May. Vinicius produced a man-of-the-match display for Real, as the Spanish giants secured a 2-0 win over Borussia Dortmund.
He netted the second goal, which ensured that he ended the competition with a career-high tally of ten goal involvements in ten appearances.
Brazilian into Odds-On for Ballon d’Or
The recent reports in the Spanish capital have had an immediate impact on the odds available at BetUS. Vinicius Jr was as big as +1600 back in the middle of April, with Bellingham being the strong favorite at +350.
However, the odds now have a contrasting feel. The Brazilian is now priced up at -250 to win the prestigious honor in the French capital next month, with Rodri being a short second-favorite at +175.
Bellingham appears to be out of the running at +2000, while Real Madrid teammate Dani Carvajal is a +2500 chance.
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