Neymar has risen to the defence of Vinicius Jr, after the Brazilian failed to secure his place on the podium in this year’s Ballon d’Or.
In a season brimming with quality, Vini, has stood out as one of the best players on the planet. His explosive pace and phenomenal skills saw him bag 22 goals last season, including a heroic winner in the Champions League Final. Consequently, he’s received his plaudits, coming in eighth place in the rankings for the most prestigious award in football.
However, despite his impressive finish, Neymar has been rendered furious. The PSG forward believes that his countryman ought to have secured a place in the top three. So, he took to social media to congratulate Karim Benzema on the win and slam the rankings in the process.
Neymar gives his opinion on Vinicius Jr
The forward tweeted: “Benzema deserved it. But for Vini, being 8th is not possible. He should at least be in the top three.”
At the age of 34, the French striker became the oldest winner in the history of the Ballon d’Or. Last season, Benzema left defenders quaking in their boots with his sensational performances. And with that considered, Neymar will believe that he still has time to get his hands on the trophy.
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Just like his teammate, Lionel Messi, After a poor campaign by his standards, Neymar failed to make the top 30. However, he’s bounced back in the early stages of 2022-23 and looks destined to compete for the crown when the award ceremony rolls around again this time next year.
The former Barcelona star has accumulated nine goals and seven assists from 11 matches in Ligue 1. And with the World Cup, just on the horizon, there’s no doubt he’ll be looking to cement his place back among the sport’s elite.
Brazil feature in Group G alongside Serbia, Switzerland and Cameroon. And while all those teams are bound to pose stern tests, the South American side is heavily favoured to progress to the next round.
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