AS Roma center back Mats Hummels has slammed Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr. and the club for failing to make an appearance in the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony.
Mats Hummels, who played in the 2024 Champions League final against Real Madrid, compared the club’s behavior to that of former American President Donald Trump.
While the former Dortmund star was speaking in his podcast, he said, “I try to make it somewhat political and diplomatic because you haven’t won an election; it does have a bit of a Trumpian quality. Unfortunately, it’s disrespectful to the others who are there. That’s the bad thing.”
Hummels justified why Rodri deserved the award ahead of Vinicius stating the achievement of the Spaniard.
He said, “He has won the FA Cup, the Premier League, Euro 2024, has lost one of his last 80 games, and scores important goals.”
“There’s no question that someone from Real would have deserved it too. But there are other amazing players too. They’re all so good. And then not to give them the credit is really mean.”
“There were teams that were more disadvantaged in international football; let’s just say that.”
After the news broke out that Spanish midfielder Rodri won the 2024 Ballon d’Or award because of his stellar performance with the Spain national team and Manchester City, Real Madrid weren’t happy.
In an attempt to show solidarity for Vinicius, the team decided to boycott the event.
Some players of the team took to their social media accounts to criticize the organizers of the Ballon d’Or award.
Rodri became the first Manchester City player to win the award and the second Premier League player to win since Cristiano Ronaldo won it in 2008.
How Rodri Celebrated After Winning The Ballon d’Or For The First Time In His Career?
After the award ceremony, Rodri was seen heavily celebrating his success with his family and friends.
A video that was circulating online now deleted showed Rodri mocking the Brazilian winger, Vinicius Jr., during the celebration singing “Vini ciao, Vini ciao, ciao, ciao!”
Rodri won’t be participating in any football matches again for this season after suffering a cruciate ligament tear.
He has been out for 38 days, as his team, Manchester City, continued to battle for silverware. Rodri’s impact in the club has been exceptional, with the fans already missing his excellent attributes.
What Mats Hummels Said After He Was Nominated For The 2024 Ballon d’Or
The former German international, who finished in 29th place of the Ballon d’Or, reacted to his nomination after leading Borussia Dortmund to the Champions League final in 2024.
He said, “Being last at the Ballon d’Or is the most beautiful last place in the world.”
What do you think about Mats Hummels’ statement about Real Madrid’s behaviour? Air your views in the comments section.
