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Richarlison outraged by Ballon d’Or result as ex-Everton hero criticizes Vinicius Jr’s decision

Richarlison outraged by Ballon d’Or result as ex-Everton hero criticizes Vinicius Jr’s decision

Manchester City midfielder Rodri won the Ballon d’Or on Monday night, but the decision was not universally supported by Premier League players.

Brazilian forwards Richarlison (L) and Vinicius Jr. take part in training at the Arena Pantanal in Cuiaba, Brazil, October 10, 2023, ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying soccer matches against Venezuela and Uruguay. (Photo by NELSON ALMEIDA/AFP) (Photo by NELSON ALMEIDA/AFP via Getty Images)

Former Everton striker Richarlison couldn’t hide his disappointment at the surprise Ballon d’Or result, venting his disappointment on social media when it was announced Rodri had won the prestigious award.

With many betting that his teammate Vinicius Junior would take home the Ballon d’Or on Monday night, the result stunned not only fans but also other players. Contrary to predictions, Manchester City’s Rodri took the prize after an impressive season, winning the Premier League and Euro 2024 with Spain.


The decision prompted Real Madrid to boycott the glittering Paris ceremony in protest at their star striker’s ignored statement. But Richarlison and the Spanish giants were not alone in their dissatisfaction with the decision.

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On Instagram, Richarlison slammed France Football, the organizers of the Ballon d’Or. The incident unfolded live as the Spurs player broadcast his reaction to the announcement, appearing visibly shocked and covering his head with his hand when Rodri’s name was called out.


On Instagram, he expressed the opinion of many Brazilians: “All of us who live football look forward to the individual awards of each season. Today, all Brazilians who love football woke up expecting another player from our country to receive the award for the best football.” in the world after so long,” reports the Mirror.

Richarlison continued his post by expressing his disappointment at the snub: “Unfortunately, for reasons no one can understand, the award was not received. And don’t get me wrong, Rodri is a great player who deserves to be one of the best.” But Vini not winning the Ballon d’Or was embarrassing, and the only thing that lost today was football.”

Brazilian striker Richarlison expressed his disappointment on social media, saying: “I remember Vini saying his dream was to see the whole of Brazil cheering for him. And that day was today! You are a giant and the best in the world, baby!” And no trophy will change that. Keep going and never stop talking. We are together!


Lucas Paqueta, another Brazil international, also expressed his dissatisfaction with the decision, writing to Vinicius on Instagram: “Just to let you know that I am proud to say that I am your friend, that I admire you and root for you more than any victory of mine!

“That I admire your story and the person you have become! You are the best! Even if they say the opposite! I love you and we are closer than ever! We always move forward!!!”


Wolves midfielder Mario Lemina also disagreed with the result, saying: “Yes, Rodri is the best midfielder in the world. But the best player in the world right now is without a doubt Vinicius. Goodbye football.”

However, not all Premier League players shared the same opinion. Manchester City’s Ilkay Gundogan, a former Barcelona player, congratulated his teammate Rodri on what he believed was a well-deserved victory.

The sports star took to Instagram to express his admiration: “As of today, he is finally no longer ‘underrated.’ Congratulations to my teammate Rodri for winning the Ballon d’Or! For me this is very well deserved! I’m especially happy that this title is won by someone in a defensive position, and not always just forwards.”


“Rodri is the perfect midfielder and there is no one who plays his position better than him. There are so many clubs in Europe looking for a world class defensive midfielder, but in the end there is only one! What progress has been made in recent years.” !