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The Blaugrana defender pointed out that this year's Ballon d'Or winner has already been chosen
Barcelona defender Inigo Martinez has backed Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior to win the 2024 Ballon d’Or, showing respect for his El Clasico rival ahead of their high-stakes clash.
With Vinicius coming off a phenomenal 2023/24 season that saw Real Madrid claim both La Liga and UEFA Champions League titles, Martinez acknowledged that Vinicius is the front-runner for this year’s prestigious award.
Vinicius favourite for Ballon d’Or award
The Brazilian forward netted a career-best 24 goals last season and has continued his form into this season, scoring eight times and building a potent Real Madrid front three alongside Kylian Mbappe and Rodrygo.
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Despite the rivalry, Martinez expressed only admiration for Vinicius’ talents and hinted that the Ballon d’Or is all but secured for the Real Madrid star.
Ahead of the season’s first El Clasico of the 2024/25 season, Martinez tols Marca, “We all know they will give it to Vinicius Jr, I have no doubt.
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“He’s a great player...the other day he showed it in the Champions League and blew the lid off the game!”
Martinez wary of Vinicius El Clasico threat
The Barcelona centre-back admitted that Vinicius’ form against Barcelona is a serious threat, especially considering his four goals in three encounters last season, including a hat trick in their league showdown at the Bernabeu.
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This formidable track record has only strengthened Martinez’s belief that Vinicius deserves the Ballon d’Or recognition.
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While Martinez anticipates a win for Vinicius, he also hopes to see Barcelona’s rising stars in contention for future Ballon d’Or awards, singling out Lamine Yamal as one to watch.
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