Brazil legend backs Real Madrid superstar to bounce back from Ballon d’Or disappointment | OneFootball

In a recent interview, Barcelona and Brazil legend Rivaldo acknowledge Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Jr.’s form declined after his 2024 Ballon d’Or snub.

Having been the leading favourite to win the top honour, the Brazilian international ended up coming in second, with Rodri being voted the winner.

Since then, Vinicius’ form took a hit as he was nowhere near the level that had made him a contender for the Ballon d’Or last year. But Rivaldo backed him to come good again after the dip.

“Vinicius dropped off a bit after the disappointment of not winning the Ballon d’Or. He had a dip, but he’s a great player, a player who I’m sure will have a great tournament now, because the World Cup is coming up soon,” Rivaldo said, as quoted by SPORT.

Vini’s form suffered after last year’s Ballon d’Or snub. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Following a rather underwhelming season, Vinicius ended up 16th in the Ballon d’Or rankings this year, a big dip from his last year’s position.

Even so, Rivaldo confessed he did not understand why Vinicius finished 16th in this year’s vote, saying:

‘We don’t know if it was because of his dip in form, or if it was something between Real Madrid and the Ballon d’Or, because of the situation between the club and France Football magazine….

“We don’t know exactly what happened, but I hope he goes back to being the same Vinicius he was a year ago. I’d love him to win the Ballon d’Or.”

The Brazilian has had some difficult moments early this season, but he showed signs of recovering his form earlier this week, scoring and assisting a goal each against Levante.