‘Rodri doesn’t do anything’ — Benzema insists Vinicius Junior deserved Ballon d’Or

Real Madrid legend Karim Benzema has suggested Vinicius Junior was robbed after the Brazilian lost the Ballon d'Or to Manchester City's Rodri.

The 2024 Ballon d'Or has continued to polarise opinions after Rodri beat Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr to the prestigious award.

Both players were heavy favourites with Vinicius expected to edge out the Manchester City midfielder.

However, reports circulated on Monday that no player from Real Madrid would be present at the awards ceremony after the club had ben informed that Vinicius had lost the prize.

There has been uproar from a section of fans since the award was announced, mainly those of Brazilian and Los Blancos persuasion.

Benzema slams Vinicius Junior Ballon d'Or snub

Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid | Getty

Karim Benzema, a Real Madrid legend and former Ballon d'Or winner, believes Rodri should not have won.

“I spoke to Vini, he’s sad… it’s also normal. He deserved to win the Ballon d’Or.

“I’ve nothing against Rodri, good player… but I’m in my sofa watching TV and Rodri doesn’t do anything that makes you say: wow!”

The award means Rodri becomes the first Spanish male footballer to win the Ballon d'Or in 60 years.