Why Neymar Junior insists Vinicius Jr deserves to win 2024 Ballon d'Or Award ahead of Rodri, Bellingham

• Real Madrid duo Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham have been tipped as the favourites for the 2024 Ballon Award
• Meanwhile, Spain's Euro 2024-winning midfielder, Rodri, is also forcing his way into the conversation
• However, former Barcelona forward, Neymar Jr., is convinced "no one" merits the prize better than his Brazilian compatriot

Brazil and Al-Hilal superstar Neymar Junior has publicly backed his compatriot, Vinicius Junior, for the 2024 Ballon d'Or award, asserting that "no one" deserves the prestigious accolade more than him.

The former Barcelona forward praised Vinicius for his exceptional performance over the past season, which saw the zippy winger play a crucial role in Real Madrid's success in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.

Vinicius Junior, Rodri and Bellingham are the leading candidates to win the 2024 Ballon d'Or Award. Photos by Mark Leech/Offside, Alex Grimm and Stu Forster.
Source: UGC

Neymar backs Vinicius to win Ballon d'Or

Neymar emphasised Vini's significant contribution and resilience, highlighting his stellar club campaign.

PAY ATTENTION: Share your outstanding story with our editors! Please reach us through info@corp.legit.ng!

"I love Vini. He had a great season and truly embodied 'jogo bonito.' I'll definitely be rooting for him to win the Ballon d'Or," Neymar said in an interview with Band Sports, as cited by Tribuna.

According to Transfermarkt, the 23-year-old was involved in 35 goals, scoring 24 and providing 11 assists across 39 appearances in all competitions during the 2023-24 season.

Despite an injury setback early in the season, he returned to form and was instrumental in driving Carlo Ancelotti's men to success.

While Vini Jr. excelled at club level, he faced challenges replicating his form with Brazil, as the Selecao exited the Copa America at the quarter-final stage.

However, Neymar believes this does not overshadow his compatriot's deservingness of the Ballon d'Or.

"There’s no one else who deserves it more. He’s a fighter who has overcome a lot and exceeded all expectations and criticisms. "He’s grown into a great player and an idol for many Brazilians," the 32-year-old added.

Who are Vinicius Junior's rivals for the 2024 Ballon d'Or?

Vinicius Junior will face tough competition for the 2024 Ballon d'Or prize despite Neymar's endorsement.

Key contenders include his Real Madrid teammate Jude Bellingham and Spain's Rodri.

Rodri, in particular, has gained attention after being named the Player of the Tournament at the Euros, where he played a pivotal role in Spain's victory.

Additionally, Lautaro Martinez, who had an outstanding season with Inter Milan and won the Copa America, is also considered a strong candidate.

Messi picks 2024 Ballon d'Or contenders

Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Lionel Messi has named Vinicius and Kylian Mbappe among the frontrunners for the 2024 Ballon d’Or award but has excluded Jude Bellingham from the race.

The England midfielder, who had a stellar debut season with Real Madrid, is expected to provide stiff competition to whoever is in the running for the prize.

The Ballon d’Or, which both Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi have largely dominated over the last decade, saw the Argentina captain add another to his record-extending accolade following his triumph at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Source: YEN.com.gh