Sports

Vinicius Junior and Real Madrid Boycott the 2024 Ballon d’Or Ceremony: A Surprising Turn of Events

Published

2 years ago

October 28, 2024

As the football world eagerly anticipates the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony, significant controversy has emerged regarding Vinicius Junior and Real Madrid’s participation. Scheduled for Monday night at the renowned Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, the event honors the best football player globally, with Vinicius among the notable contenders alongside Rodri, Jude Bellingham, and Kylian Mbappé.

Initially regarded as a frontrunner for the prestigious accolade, Vinicius Junior’s prospects have dramatically shifted. Reports from RMC Sport’s Fabrice Hawkins indicate that his entourage has tempered their expectations, believing that his chances of winning the award have diminished. This sentiment appears to resonate within Real Madrid, where many are expressing doubt about the Brazilian’s likelihood of claiming the title.

In a bold move, transfer insider Fabrizio Romano announced on social media that Real Madrid has opted not to send a delegation to the ceremony. He stated, “BREAKING: Vinicius Jr will NOT travel to Paris as Real Madrid know he will NOT win the Ballon d’Or. No one from Real Madrid will attend the ceremony.” This absence notably includes key figures such as club president Florentino Pérez, Vinicius Junior himself, coach Carlo Ancelotti, and fellow teammate Jude Bellingham.

The decision has reportedly sparked frustration among Real Madrid’s directors, who are confident of Vinicius not securing the award, leading to the cancellation of their trip to Paris. Speculation suggests that Manchester City’s Rodri could emerge as the dark horse for the honor, potentially overshadowing not just Vinicius but also Bellingham.

As the final decision awaits revelation at the ceremony, anticipation continues to build around an event that promises to be a dazzling showcase of football excellence in the heart of France.

Related Topics:Ballon d’Or Real Madrid Vinicius Junior

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Sports

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

Published

1 day 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

1 day 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

1 day 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.