Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has predicted the winner of the 2024 Ballon d'Or.
Former England defender Rio Ferdinand has hailed Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior as the frontrunner to clinch the prestigious Ballon d'Or award this year.
The Brazilian forward was decisive for Real Madrid last season, scoring 24 goals and providing 11 assists in 39 games across all competitions.
![Shock as Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi suffer Ballon d'Or snub for first time in 20 years](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/04092024/b3458c73-de8a-4abe-ba8e-d3326e1a4b83.jpg?operations=fit(180:))
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Shock as Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi suffer Ballon d'Or snub for first time in 20 years
Legendary duo Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have been left out of the 2024 Ballon d'Or nominations for the first time since 2003.
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Ferdinand backs Vinicius Junior for Ballon d'Or
Ferdinand believes Vinicius Junior's impressive skills on the pitch make him the strongest contender for the coveted award.
![](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/15052024/a5cb8ea2-d8ea-410b-b1b9-3100634b9dc4.jpg?operations=fit(480:))
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"I don't think anyone has done anything else to suggest that they should win the Ballon d'Or over Vini Jr," Ferdinand said in an interview with Madrid Zone, as reported by Sportskeeda.
The former defender praised Vinicius Junior's crucial role in Real Madrid's triumphant season, stating:
"He was the most decisive player and a huge reason why Real won the Champions League and La Liga."
Ferdinand also hinted that England's Jude Bellingham could be a potential contender if he continues his impressive form and helps England win the Euros. "If Jude keeps scoring and England wins the Euros, he's definitely going to be in the mix too," Ferdinand added.
Vinicius Junior's impressive performance has made him a favorite among fans and pundits, and despite his failure in the Copa America, there is still a strong chance he will walk away with the award.
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