Real Madrid, Ajax, and AC Milan legend, Clarence Seedorf believes that an unresolved dispute is the reason Vinicius Jr missed out on the Ballon d’Or.
The Brazilian winger finished second in the standings, ahead of Real Madrid teammates Jude Bellingham and Dani Carvajal. But was defeated by Rodri, a midfielder for Manchester City, to earn the coveted accolade on Monday night.
Madrid expressed their displeasure by choosing not to send any delegates to the ceremony after learning earlier in the day that Vinicius had not won.
In attendance with his wife Sophia Makramati, Seedorf, who won the Champions League with Real Madrid in 1998, according to Daily Mail offered his own explanation for Vinicius Jr.’s exclusion.
“I already voted almost a year ago and I think Vinicius deserved this award,” Seedorf told TNT Sports Brasil.
“It seems that there is something between Real Madrid and UEFA that seems to be unresolved.”
He added: “The problems between Real Madrid and UEFA should be kept outside of these matters. It’s a shame.”
Seedorf did not elaborate on the specifics of the debate, but Madrid managed to earn team of the year. Carlo Ancelotti was named men’s coach of the year after his club won the Champions League and La Liga.
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However, Seedorf was by no means the only well-known person to object to the final Ballon d’Or rankings.
Vinicius took to X after the decision was announced to post: “I’ll do it 10x if I have to. They’re not ready.”
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