Fabrice Hawkins and RMC Sport have indicated a shift in expectations. Hawkins noted that Vinicius has grown pessimistic, believing that if he doesn’t win, Rodri from Manchester City will claim the award.
“Vinicius Junior’s camp now thinks he won’t get the Ballon d’Or. This sentiment is prevalent in Madrid,” Hawkins and RMC Sport shared on social media, reflecting the mood ahead of the Paris ceremony.
Both Vinicius and Rodri were involved in the Champions League quarter-finals, and Marca initially predicted a win for Vinicius. However, as doubts about his prospects increased, sources at Marca began to reevaluate their predictions.
A surprising report from France suggests that Vinicius feels he may have lost his chance for the Ballon d’Or.
While Real Madrid has been preparing extensively for the ceremony, it remains unclear whether Carlo Ancelotti’s striker will win, and there are rumors that the club might not travel to Paris after all.