Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti expects Vinicius Junior to win this year's Ballon d'Or and even backed the Brazilian to win the prize in 2025 after his sensational hat-trick against Borussia Dortmund.
Having fallen to a surprising 2-0 deficit at the interval, Madrid roared to a stunning 5-2 victory which was inspired by three goals from Vinicius, who tapped home the equaliser before netting two glorious goals late on.
While Ancelotti was correct to remind fans that Vinicius' performance will not technically count when it comes to the voting for the 2024 Ballon d'Or, which will be announced on Monday, the Madrid boss expects to see the Brazilian take home the prize regardless.
"It's rare to see a player perform like Vinicius did in the second half, not just with the goals, but with an extraordinary energy, intensity, and character," Ancelotti told a press conference.
"I think hes going to win the Ballon d'Or for what he did last year, helping us win the Champions League, not for todays three goals, which will count towards next years Ballon d'Or."
2024 Ballon d'Or favourites
- Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)
- Rodri (Manchester City)
- Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
- Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid)
- Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
- Kylian Mbappe (PSG/Real Madrid)
- Lautaro Martinez (Inter)
- Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
- Nico Williams (Athletic Club)
- Phil Foden (Manchester City)
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