Sports

Journalist Resigns from Ballon d’Or Jury Following Controversial Omission of Vinicius Jr

Published

2 years ago

November 9, 2024

In a remarkable turn of events in the realm of football journalism, Finnish journalist Juha Kanerva has announced his resignation from the prestigious Ballon d’Or jury. This decision comes on the heels of significant backlash after he notably excluded Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr from his list of top ten players for the 2023 award.

The Ballon d’Or, awarded annually, is based on votes cast by an array of journalists who assess player performances over the preceding season. Traditionally, this process has invited both admiration and debate, but controversy reached new heights this year. Manchester City midfielder Rodri clinched the men’s award over Vinicius Jr, who secured the second position, despite being widely anticipated as a frontrunner after playing a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s triumphs in both La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.

The situation escalated further when a list highlighting journalists who excluded Vinicius from their commendations was made public. In reaction to being identified among those who overlooked the talented player, Kanerva took to social media to acknowledge the oversight, describing it as a “technical error.” He stated, “I will resign from the Ballon d’Or jury,” marking a significant moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding player recognition and journalism accountability.

The departure of Kanerva from the jury underscores the broader implications of voting decisions in high-stakes awards and the scrutiny journalists face in their selections, particularly when it involves celebrated athletes whose contributions significantly shape the landscape of the sport.

Related Topics:Ballon d'Or jury Juha Kanerva

Up Next

Jigawa Golden Stars to Compete in the 2024-25 Nigeria National League.

Don't Miss

Carlo Ancelotti’s Ambition: A Final Push for Champions League Glory

Click to comment

Sports

Why Ronaldo May Never Play for Portugal Again, Says His Sister Elma Aveiro.

Published

2 days ago

October 15, 2026

Emmanuel Ikechukwu

Cristiano Ronaldo’s future with Portugal has been thrown into uncertainty after his sister, Elma Aveiro, suggested that he may not represent the national team again.

Ronaldo was suspended by the Portuguese Football Federation after reportedly leaving the team camp during the UEFA Nations League. The Al Nassr forward was said to be angry with head coach Jorge Jesus after remaining on the bench during Portugal’s match against Croatia.

The dispute escalated when Ronaldo accused Jesus of “betrayal.” Aveiro has now indicated that the disagreement may be difficult to resolve.

Asked whether Ronaldo would return to the national team, she replied: “It’s more likely a NO than a YES. I think they’re both hurt. The situation has stalled.”

She added: “When we’re betrayed, it’s very difficult to go back to normal.”

The comments have raised further questions about whether Portugal’s captain has made his final international appearance.

Sports

NPFL Suspends Fan Over Threats to Match Officials.

Published

2 days ago

October 15, 2026

Emmanuel Ikechukwu

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has suspended football fan Jamilu Murtala from all league activities with immediate effect, citing continued threats to the safety of match officials and visiting teams.

The decision followed a complaint from Ranchers Bees, who currently use the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano as their temporary home ground. The club raised concerns over Murtala’s access to restricted areas of the pitch during their home fixtures, reportedly facilitated by the host state football association.

Ranchers Bees also dissociated themselves from Murtala, describing his conduct as disruptive and a recurring nuisance during their matches.

In response, the NPFL has barred him from league grounds to promote order and ensure the safety of all participants. Ranchers Bees will visit Ibadan on Sunday to face Shooting Stars, while their next home fixture is scheduled against Doma United on Sunday, 25 October 2026.

Sports

EPL: Martinez is seeking a departure from Manchester United.

Published

2 days ago

October 15, 2026

Emmanuel Ikechukwu

Lisandro Martinez is reportedly considering ending his time at Manchester United following criticism directed at the club’s technical director, Jason Wilcox.

United’s difficult run continued on Tuesday, when they suffered a 2–0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League. The result marked their fifth consecutive match without a victory. After the game, Martinez openly expressed his frustration during a post-match exchange.

According to The Athletic, his comments have raised further questions about his future at Old Trafford. The Argentina international is entering the final year of his contract, although United retain the option to extend the agreement by an additional season.

Despite that provision, Martinez reportedly has no interest in prolonging his stay with the club. He is said to be keen on securing a future transfer to La Liga, potentially bringing his Manchester United career to an early conclusion.