Real Madrid was crowned Men’s Club of the Year despite not having representation at the Ballon d’Or ceremony this Monday night.
Los Blancos remain the team to beat in Europe after a hugely successful 2023/24 campaign that saw Carlo Ancelotti’s side claim the La Liga and Champions League titles.
Vinicius Junior had been heavily tipped to win the top prize in Paris, but it soon became apparent on Monday that the Brazil international he would not be crowned the best player in the world. The prize was finally later it was given to Euro 2024 winner Rodri.
With Dani Carvajal also overlooked in Madrid’s view, none of their superstars attended the event, and the club insisted. they don’t go where they are not “respected”.
It was awkward viewing when the Spanish giants were named Men’s Club of the Year for their great achievements last season, with no one associated with Madrid present to collect the silver.
Co-host Didier Drogba quickly said “Congratulations to them”, before continuing with the ceremony.
It wasn’t the only award they were unable to accept on the night due to their boycott, with Kylian Mbappe and Carlo Ancelotti not appearing at their respective awards. Gerd Muller Trophy i Men’s Coach of the Year gongs
The Madrid players were quick to take to social networks to back Vinicius over resentment, with the likes of Ferland Mendy, Eduardo Camavinga and Federico Valverde insisting his team-mate was robbed.
Vinicius was second Ballon d’Or votingwith Madrid teammates Jude Bellingham and Dani Carvajal in third and fourth place respectively. Rodri made a special mention of Carvajalwith both players recently suffering serious anterior cruciate ligament injuries earlier in the season.
