Sport
Benzema Defends Vinicius and Questions Rodri’s Ballon d’Or Win
Al-Ittihad striker Karim Benzema believes Vinicius Jr. was the rightful winner of the 2024 Ballon d’Or. Benzema, who has been a mentor to Vinicius during their years at Real Madrid, expressed disappointment that the Brazilian talent didn’t take home the trophy.
In the recent Ballon d’Or results, Vinicius finished as runner-up to Manchester City’s Rodri, who was awarded the prestigious title during a ceremony held in Paris, France.
However, the decision sparked controversy, leading Vinicius and his Real Madrid teammates to skip the event entirely, a silent protest over what they felt was an unjust outcome.
Benzema shared his views on the situation, explaining he had recently spoken with Vinicius, who was understandably disappointed by the result.
“I talked to Vini, and he’s down… which is normal,” Benzema remarked. “He deserved to be recognized as the best.”
The former Real Madrid forward also commented on Rodri’s victory, emphasizing that while he respects the Spanish midfielder, he believes Rodri’s style lacks the electrifying impact Vinicius brings to the game.
Benzema candidly stated, “Rodri is a good player, but I’m watching from home, and there’s nothing in his game that makes you go ‘wow.’”
This year’s Ballon d’Or decision has sparked a wider conversation about how players are evaluated for the prestigious award and whether the voting system accurately reflects the skills and achievements of top talents.
Chelsea player Enzo Fernández is in discussions to join Manchester City. This information was revealed by Fabrizio Romano, who shared that the two clubs are discussing a potential deal.
He wrote: “Enzo Fernández has a verbal agreement with Manchester City on personal terms.
“Deal depends on club-to-club decision, as #MCFC have not sent an official bid yet, but contacts will take place soon; decision on price is up to Chelsea.
“Enzo could be out again this weekend.”
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca mentions his captains for the team. He mentions Rúben Dias and Erling Haaland.
He shared “We have experienced players. For sure, we have leaders. Now we need to wait four or five more days until the transfer window closes to see if we can add one or two more captains to Ruben [Dias] and Erling , who at the moment are the two captains.”
Maresca confirmed the pair as part of his leadership group ahead of the 2026/27 season, with two more captains expected to be selected after the transfer window closes.
Chelsea manager speaks on the team and shares thoughts on considering a change in goalkeepers, giving another goalkeeper, Mike Penders, a chance.
“Penders is part of the squad, so he has an opportunity. We will decide and then I am giving the team tomorrow to the players, so I prefer to respect that they know first.”
“Fighting for Nigerians Is Tiring” — VeryDarkMan Recalls Burna Boy’s Words
Enzo Fernández Moves Closer to Manchester City Transfer
