'There is no one more deserving than him' Karim Benzema asserts Vinicius Junior to be most deserving of Ballon d'Or

Karim Benzema, a former Ballon d’Or winner and renowned French striker, recently shared his thoughts on the ongoing Ballon d’Or discussion. He emphasized his belief that Vinicius deserved the award more than Rodri due to the Brazilian’s substantial impact over the season. 

As fans turned their attention to Paris this Monday for the announcement of the Ballon d'Or winner, Vinicius emerged as the favourite in the betting lines. Despite 'France Football's urging discretion to maintain the element of surprise, many predictions suggested that the Brazilian would take home the prestigious accolade.

In the hours leading up to the event, there was a notable shift. The decision by Real Madrid and the player to forgo the gala set the stage for what unfolded. Rodri received the prestigious Ballon d'Or, prompting a barrage of controversy around the situation. Recently, Karim Benzema shared his thoughts in an interview with El Chiringuito de Jugones, adding further perspective to the ongoing discussion.

Benzema's take on Ballon d'Or 

The former Madrid striker firmly believes that Vinicius was the deserving winner and stood by his assertion. In a show of solidarity, Benzema reached out to Vinicius to express his support.

Benzema acknowledged that he holds no hard feelings towards Rodri, considering him a talented player. However, he mentioned that during moments of relaxation, when watching TV, he sometimes finds himself less impressed by Rodri's performance. In contrast, he feels that Vinicius has consistently delivered moments that truly excite him. This is why Benzema believes Vinicius deserves the Ballon d'Or.

"It's not just about this year. When I was in Madrid, the same applied. Vinicius has put in a tremendous effort; it’s not only about scoring goals. In the Champions League that Madrid won last season, he was decisive in every match. That’s why I believe there is no one more deserving than him," Benzema began.

"I hold nothing against Rodri, who is a good player. But I’m sitting on the sofa watching TV, and he’s not doing things that make me go 'pfff...'," he said.

"I was talking to him; I texted him, yes. He was upset, which is normal. It’s complicated, especially when everyone sees that you are the Ballon d'Or and then just hours before, they tell you that you won't win it. He’s a good kid; I know he will work hard and one day he will win it," he added.