James Rodriguez’s Surprising Ballon d’Or Pick: Not Bellingham or Vinicius
As the football world gears up for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, the buzz around who might take home this prestigious award is growing louder. Fans and experts alike are speculating, debating, and making their predictions. Real Madrid fans, in particular, have a lot to be excited about, with several of their stars in the mix for the top individual honor in global football.
The Usual Suspects
When it comes to Ballon d’Or discussions, names like Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, and even Kylian Mbappe often dominate the conversation. Their performances over the past season have been nothing short of stellar, making them strong contenders for the award. Many believe that one of these footballing giants will be the one to lift the trophy this year.
James Rodriguez Weighs In
But here’s where things get interesting. James Rodriguez, a former Real Madrid star himself, recently shared his thoughts on the upcoming Ballon d’Or race, and his pick might surprise you.
"Who do I think will win the Ballon d’Or in 2024?" James said, "In my view, if it’s based on titles, Dani Carvajal has fought hard and performed well. Bellingham? I’m uncertain. Vinicius? His Copa America performance was underwhelming."
Wait, what? Not Bellingham? Not Vinicius? According to James, it's Dani Carvajal who deserves the nod. This statement has certainly raised a few eyebrows, especially considering James has shared the pitch with both Vinicius and Carvajal.
Bold Prediction or Insider Insight?
James’ remarks are particularly intriguing because they come from someone who knows the inner workings of Real Madrid. Having played alongside Carvajal and Vinicius, his opinion holds weight. But is this just a bold prediction, or does James know something we don’t?
Carvajal, a seasoned defender, has indeed been a key player for Real Madrid, known for his consistent performances and ability to rise to the occasion in crucial matches. However, defenders rarely get the spotlight when it comes to the Ballon d’Or, an award typically dominated by forwards and midfielders.
Join the Conversation
So, what do you think? Could Dani Carvajal actually be in the running for the Ballon d’Or, or is James Rodriguez simply offering a different perspective? Are Vinicius and Bellingham still the top contenders in your eyes?
Let’s discuss! Share your thoughts in the comments below. Do you agree with James, or do you have your own pick for the 2024 Ballon d’Or?