Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has praised Rodri and considered him worthy of winning the Ballon d’Or, but for last year and not this year.
In a lengthy interview with Perez about the Ballon d’Or, he said: “I want to say that Rodri is a great player, he is from Madrid and he has our affection, he deserved to win the Ballon d’Or but not this year, but last year.”
He also added: “This year the Ballon d’Or should have been won by a Real Madrid player.”
He continued: “If the Euros had an impact on the winner of the Ballon d’Or, Dani Carvajal also won the title, it is inexplicable.”
He continued: “There was a shout for Vinicius, but it could have been for our captain Carvajal. Or even Bellingham. It is very difficult to explain.”
“You have to ask the organisation what criteria they have to follow, but it is clear that they can do whatever they want without caring. I would ask France Football and L’Equipe if it makes sense for them to unite with UEFA now. The Ballon d’Or should be an independent award and voted for by known people.”
“If it weren’t for Namibia, Uganda, Albania and Finland, Vinicius would have won the Ballon d’Or. What’s more, these countries didn’t give Vinicius a single vote (laughs). Not a single vote! (laughs)”
Speaking about Vinicius, he concluded: “Vinicius, you are the best player in the world, I want you to know that we are proud of you at Real Madrid for everything you have given us.”
