Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti has boldly predicted that forward Vinicius Jr. will secure the 2024 Ballon d’Or.
Following Madrid’s thrilling comeback win over Borussia Dortmund, Ancelotti stated, “Vinicius Jr WILL win the Ballon d’Or, in my opinion. He will get the award.”
The coach highlighted the Brazilian’s outstanding performance last season as central to his Ballon d’Or candidacy, while his sensational hat-trick in the match further bolstered his claim.
In a classic European night at the Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid overturned a 0-2 deficit to triumph 5-2 against Dortmund in an electrifying display. Early goals from Malen and Gittens gave the German side a solid lead, but Madrid responded with five goals in just 34 minutes. Antonio Rüdiger kick-started the comeback with a header, and Vinicius Jr. quickly equalized.
Lucas Vázquez then put Madrid ahead, before Vinicius completed a stunning hat-trick, scoring twice more, including a brilliant finish in injury time to seal the victory.
Vinicius Jr.’s masterclass comes on the heels of the 2024 Ballon d’Or nominations, where he stands among football elites like Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, and Jude Bellingham. Ancelotti’s confidence in his star player heightens anticipation for the awards ceremony, where Vinicius could potentially be crowned the best player in the world.