Rodrygo speaks out on Ballon d’Or snub said “I’m upset, but I’ll keep working”
Real Madrid star Rodrygo has expressed his disappointment at being left out of the Ballon d’Or shortlist, despite playing a crucial role in the team’s LaLiga and Champions League double last season.
Rodrygo revealed his frustration at being overlooked, especially considering his teammates Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, Toni Kroos, Antonio Rüdiger, Dani Carvajal, and new signing Kylian Mbappé all made the 30-man list.
Rodrygo’s impressive performances last season, including 10 goals in 34 LaLiga appearances and 5 goals in the Champions League, seemed to warrant recognition.
However, the Brazilian forward’s place in the Madrid team has come under pressure with the arrival of Mbappé,
despite coach Carlo Ancelotti continuing to select him as part of a three-man forward line.
In a lighthearted response to the snub, Rodrygo recently posted a series of photos on social media, showcasing his trophy wins with Madrid, accompanied by a laughing emoji.
Read Also: Bruno Fernandes Assesses Injury Status After International Duty
He admitted the post was intended to poke fun at his Ballon d’Or omission.
“I was upset, I think I deserved it,” Rodrygo said.
“I don’t want to belittle the players who are there, but I think I had a place in the 30.
It was a surprise… But there’s not much I can do, I’m not the one who decides these things.”
“I made a somewhat mocking post.”
“Now there’s not much to say. Everyone knows my indignation.
Everyone [has supported me], both in the national team and at Real Madrid. People sent messages.”
The forward scored the only goal of the game in a 1-0 victory over Ecuador this weekend.
“Often, I’m just filling spaces.”
“Is someone missing there? Put Rodrygo in.
Is someone missing on the right? Rodrygo.
Is someone missing as No. 9? Rodrygo. That’s it. It may get in my way a little, but I’m a team player.”
Rodrygo was asked about Madrid and Brazil teenager Endrick, who has been given the ironic nickname “Bobby” by teammates after citing England legend Bobby Charlton as one of his idols.
“Now he has become Bobby!”
“He is no longer Endrick. He’s become Bobby, that’s it. There’s nothing to be done, if he gets angry, it’s worse!”
The Ballon d’Or winner will be announced on October 28 in Paris.
