Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti has on Monday spoken publicly for the first time regarding star attacker Vinícius Jr. missing out on the Ballon d’Or.
The subject of Vinícius’ snub at last Monday’s Ballon d’Or ceremony has of course dominated the headlines in Spain’s capital over the week since.
This comes after the Brazilian, long considered something of a shoo-in for the prize, was overlooked, in favour of Manchester City star Rodri.
Real Madrid, as a club, were quick to show their support for Vinícius, completely boycotting the gala in Paris upon learning of the 24-year-old’s impending disappointment.
Speaking to the media for the first time since, ahead of Los Blancos’ Champions League showdown with AC Milan on Tuesday, Carlo Ancelotti was in turn today inevitably drawn on the ‘Golden Ball’ controversy.
The Italian tactician, though, was predictably diplomatic in his response:
“I congratulate whoever won at the Ballon d’Or awards but my Ballon d’Or was won on June 1st, in the Champions League final.”
Conor Laird – GSFN
