'He deserves it..'- Manchester City star picks Vinicius Jr. over Rodri for Ballon d'Or 2024 winner

Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson selected Real Madrid striker Vinicius Junior, a fellow countryman, to win the 2024 Ballon d'Or instead of teammate Rodri. On October 28, the winner will be revealed in Paris. Vinicius, who had an outstanding season with Los Blancos, is a heavy favorite to win the coveted award.

In 39 appearances in all competitions, the 24-year-old scored 24 goals and provided 11 assists, helping his side win three trophies, including the La Liga-UEFA Champions League. In 2024, he assisted Brazil in advancing to the Copa America quarterfinals. Vinicius Junior disqualifies him with outstanding performances in pivotal moments and his consistency during Real Madrid's treble-winning season. 

Meanwhile, Rodri has strengthened his Ballon d'Or resume following a season full of trophies for both club and nation. He won Euro 2024 with Spain after assisting City in their historic Premier League four-peat and two more trophies. Ederson believes Vinicius will win this year's Ballon d'Or instead of Rodri, saying as much (according to TNT Sports Brazil via Madrid Xtra): "Ballon d'Or? Viní Jr. should win, I hope. For all he accomplished last season, he deserves it."

Check the post here:

🔵🇧🇷 Éderson tells TNT: “I hope Viní Jr wins the Ballon d’Or”. ✨

“He deserves it for everything he did last season. On the other hand if Rodri wins I'll be happy as well”. pic.twitter.com/LHJtHo6i1u

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 13, 2024

Rodri will miss full season - Pep Guardiola

Last season, Guardiola's team won the Premier League for the sixth time in seven years. In addition, they advanced to the FA Cup final, the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal, and the FIFA Club World Cup. However, they were defeated by eventual champions Real Madrid on penalties. After several outstanding performances for Spain at the Euros and his part in Man City's Premier League victory, Rodri became a serious candidate for the Ballon d'Or. 

Rodri, a midfielder for Manchester City, has struggled with injuries thus far this season. Before sustaining an ACL injury that ended his season during last month's 2-2 Premier League home tie with Arsenal, he had only made three appearances in all competitions. Before the league match against Newcastle United, City manager Pep Guardiola acknowledged that Rodri's season is finished.