The forward must now be recognized as the finest in the world following a monumental season at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The most compelling case for Vinicius Jr. securing the 2024 Ballon d'Or isn't found in a singular goal, nor is it encapsulated in statistics or patterns. Instead, his profound influence was unmistakably demonstrated during a pre-season friendly against Barcelona in New York this August. Despite still recovering from the rigors of the Copa America and perhaps slightly out of rhythm due to a lengthy lightning delay, Vinicius was brought on with just 30 minutes left to play.
He didn’t score. He didn’t assist. Yet, in that brief appearance, even as he shook off the rust and looked like he could have used a few more weeks of rest, every hallmark of Vinicius' brilliance was on full display. The deft twists, the calculated turns, the mesmerizing stepovers, the explosive pace along the flank, and the sheer audacity to attempt a rainbow flick—all these elements had the crowd, 82,000 strong at MetLife Stadium, predominantly donned in Madrid white, rising to their feet with every touch.
Such a response was more than fitting for a player who, inexplicably, has been overlooked in discussions about the world's elite for far too long. Early in his Madrid tenure, Vinicius often shared the field with more impactful teammates and then endured a period of being either ignored or underrated.
Last season, however, everything aligned perfectly. Vinicius capped the season with a La Liga-Champions League double, playing a pivotal role throughout and consistently delivering in crucial matches. He turned the Champions League into his personal stage, and his tally of 26 goals and 11 assists for both club and country paints a vivid picture.
The 2023-24 season wasn't merely when Vinicius found his form—it was the season when he truly emerged as a game-changer. No player is more worthy of the Ballon d'Or than this extraordinary Brazilian.
This season was always destined to be an unusual one for Vinicius. The abrupt departure of Karim Benzema, announced just before pre-season, forced a dramatic shift in Madrid’s system at a time when stability seemed imminent. Carlo Ancelotti, the ever-astute tactician, adapted accordingly. Vinicius was no longer just a winger. He was now a striker, part of a front two with his compatriot Rodrygo, tasked with playing narrower and occupying positions that were often unfamiliar.
Considering the loss of Benzema—a longtime adversary turned ally—one might have expected a period of adjustment for the Brazilian. But not so.
While there were some inevitable growing pains, Vinicius surged into the season with confidence. He wreaked havoc in the opener against a challenging Athletic Club side, consistently outmaneuvering his marker and appearing threatening with every touch. That all-important final product materialized in the second game of the campaign, where he secured a 3-1 victory over Almeria.
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