Cristiano Ronaldo I said it. In January, the Portuguese said in an interview that, for him, individual awards no longer had the credibility they used to. “These awards lose a little credibility. We have to analyze the whole season. “I don’t believe it anymore,” he declared five times. Golden Ball. Currently in the Al-Nassr of Saudi Arabiathe former Real Madrid player continues to break records in the Middle East. Last year, number 7 scored 44 goals in 45 matches. The Portuguese is getting closer and closer to reaching a thousand goals. With its 906 achievements, there are “only” 94 per thousand left.
These words of Christianalthough pronounced in a different context, seem to find an echo in the current situation of Viniciuswho despite his exceptional individual performances and his crucial role in the success of the the real Madridwas outvoted by Rodrifundamental piece of the triplet of Manchester City and winner of the European Cup with Spain. The controversy intensified due to the decision of the White House not sending representatives to the gala Golden Ballin what many interpret as a silent protest against what the club considers to be a lack of recognition towards its players, particularly towards Wine And Carvajal.
Pundits and fans alike have joined the debate, questioning whether the current criteria for Golden Ballwhich include individual performance, collective achievements, class and Fair playare applied in a fair and transparent manner. Many argue that the weight of collective titles seems to have eclipsed the brilliance of exceptional individual performances. CR7 He is known for his competitive spirit and his constant search for individual excellence. The top scorer in the history of the real Madrid He always advocated the importance of recognizing personal effort and talent, even in a team sport like football. One of the few rewards that maintains this credibility, according to him, is the World Football Awards. “I’m not saying it because I won it, but this award is all about numbers. These are facts. “The numbers don’t lie,” said the Bug.
The case of Vinicius is particularly striking. The Brazilian showed an exceptional level in the Spanish championship and in European competitions. He caged a target in the final of the Championswon it, was voted tournament MVP, lifted League and even scored a hat trick in the final of Spanish Super Cup against him Barcelona. And, off the field, the Carioca also stood out for its resilience in the face of incidents of racism that it had to face during the season, notably that of Mestalla. His ability to maintain high performances in adverse circumstances was widely praised, which many believe should have been an additional factor to consider when voting for the Ballon d’Or.
The controversy has led many to reflect on the changing nature of modern football and how this should be reflected in the evaluation of players for individual awards. One of the first to do so after Rodri won the Golden Ball was Camavingá. In a post on his social networks, the Frenchman clarified that politics does not have to be in the world of football. “No to football politics. Brother, you are the best player in the world and no award can say otherwise. I love you, my brother”, declared the international with the Blues.
