Vinicius Jr Urged to Refocus Amid Real Madrid’s Struggles Following Ballon d’Or Disappointment

Brazilian legend Rivaldo has pushed Vinicius Jr. to put his Ballon d’Or rejection behind him and get back to his best for Real Madrid.

After helping Real Madrid and the Champions League win last season, Vinicius Jr. and the forward were hoping he would win the coveted Ballon d’Or. Real Madrid, meanwhile, chose not to attend the Paris celebration after Rodri of Manchester City received the accolade. Following the results, Vinicius took to social media to show his defiance, although it has been stated that the disappointment has affected his morale, which coincides with Real Madrid’s recent slide after losses to both Barcelona and AC Milan.

Rivaldo’s Advice

Speaking to Betfair, via Mundo Deportivo, Rivaldo said: “Vinicius has to get this Ballon d’Or story out of his head, start playing again, and start playing well for Real Madrid, who need to win games after two consecutive defeats. Vinicius is young, and he has the talent and time to turn things around. One day he will win the Ballon d’Or, maybe even more than once.”

Rivaldo added: “Do all the journalists who vote really understand football? Are they all fully qualified? I can’t underestimate Rodri; he’s a player I like and was my second choice. Although I think Vinicius deserved the Ballon d’Or more, I admire Rodri and his playing style.”