Real Madrid source 'reveals' who club thought could win the Ballon d'Or ahead of Vinicius Jr and it's not Rodri

A Real Madrid source has reportedly revealed the player the club thought could beat Vinicius Junior to the Ballon d’Or.

The winner of the 2024 Ballon d’Or award will be announced at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, France.

Ahead of the event, the likes of Vinicius, Kylian Mbappe, Rodri and Jude Bellingham have all been tipped to be in with a big shout of clinching the illustrious prize.

It was heavily speculated that Vinicius would take home the award after enjoying a stellar 23/24 season.

However, it was reported on Monday afternoon that the Brazilian will not win the award, with Madrid set to skip the ceremony.

Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano wrote on social media: “Not even one representative of Real Madrid is expected to travel to Paris tonight.

“This is club’s decision after Vinicius Jr was made aware that he will not win the Ballon d’Or.”

It has also been claimed by RMC Sport that Madrid felt if Vinicius was not going to be named as the winner, it should be given to Dani Carvajal, who won Euro 2024 with Spain.

Centre Goals wrote on social media: “Real Madrid feels that if the Ballon d'Or criteria don't favor Vinicius for the award, Dani Carvajal should have been the one to win it.”

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After the news of Vinicius missing out on the Ballon d’Or emerged, it was quickly suggested that Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri could be named as the winner.

The 28-year-old played an integral role in City’s charge for the Premier League title last season and was also a key part of the Spain squad which won Euro 2024 by beating England 2-1 in the final.

Speaking previously about the award , Rodri said: “A Spaniard deserves to win. Spanish football deserves a Ballon d’Or winner. Spain deserves to win a Ballon d’Or.”