MADRID: The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner has reportedly already been informed of his triumph, according to reports from Spain. The world player of the year crowning ceremony is scheduled for October 28, the Kopa Trophy and Yashin Trophy will also be presented on the same evening. Among the favorites for the prestigious individual award is Manchester City’s Rodri, who helped Spain win their first international tournament in more than a decade last summer before suffering a season-ending injury. Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham was also considered a front-runner after a record-breaking debut season at the club. However, it is believed that one of his Real Madrid team-mates should receive the honour. According to a report from Marco via Football Espana, Brazilian forward Vinicius Jr has already been informed that he will secure his first Ballon d’Or at next month’s ceremony. The 24-year-old played a key role in Real Madrid’s success last season as Carlo Ancelotti led the side to a La Liga and Champions League double, with Vinicius scoring the decisive goal in Madrid’s record 15th European triumph. Not only has it been a successful season in terms of trophies for the winger, but his individual performance has been equally impressive. Vinicius finished the 2023–24 campaign with 24 goals and 11 assists for his club. Since Lionel Messi won in 2023, Vinicius has been involved in 37 goals in 38 games. If indeed Vinicius is crowned the world’s best player, he will be the first Brazilian to receive the award since Kaká, who won it in 2007 while playing for Real Madrid and AC Milan.
