Real Madrid protest seconds after Rodri announcement

In the wake of the 2024 Ballon d’Or award announcement, Real Madrid’s camp erupted in outrage as Vinicius Jr missed out on the title to Manchester City star Rodri.

The Spanish midfielder’s standout season for both club and country earned him the world’s top individual football prize, but not without protest from the Madrid faithful.

The backlash started with Real Madrid’s noticeable absence from the Paris ceremony—an apparent boycott after learning Vinicius would not be crowned.

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While Rodri celebrated his win, Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti took to Instagram to show his support for Vinicius, even as he acknowledged his own Johan Cruyff trophy for Best Coach. “Above all, I thank Vini and Carvajal,” Ancelotti wrote, standing in solidarity with his star player.

Teammates swiftly followed suit, voicing support across social media. Eduardo Camavinga didn’t mince words, calling out “Football politics” and declaring Vinicius “the best player in the world.” Goalkeeper Andrey Lunin added fuel with an Instagram story, saying, “You’re the best.” Eder Militao also weighed in, asserting, “No one can take that away from you!”

Vinicius, who reportedly had a private celebration lined up, was left to accept second place, while teammates like Toni Kroos publicly labeled him “The best.”

This united response underscores Real Madrid’s frustration at what they see as a political decision overshadowing talent and loyalty—and Vinicius’ squad isn’t letting it go quietly.