By Ramiro Diaz
Ancelotti Ignites Controversy by Revealing Real Madrid's Ballon d'Or Gala Absence: "It Wasn't a Bad Decision, We Didn't Want to Participate Because We Thought Vinícius Deserved the Ballon d'Or and I Thought So Too, Rodri Should Have Won Last Year Not This Year."
In the world of football, few things generate as much controversy as the Ballon d'Or, the most prestigious individual award a player can receive. Each year, the awards gala becomes a major event, where the stars of the beautiful game gather to celebrate the achievements of the season. However, this year's edition was marked by the notable absence of Real Madrid, one of the most successful and widely supported clubs on the planet.
Real Madrid's absence sparked all sorts of speculation and rumours. Many wondered why the club had not sent any of its representatives to the gala, especially when they had several players nominated in different categories. The answer was not long in coming, and it came from the team's own coach, Carlo Ancelotti, who did not hesitate to reveal the real reason for their absence at the gala.
In statements that quickly went viral, Ancelotti stated that the decision not to attend the gala was motivated by his conviction that Vinícius Júnior, one of Real Madrid's star players, deserved to win the Ballon d'Or. The Italian coach expressed his surprise and disappointment at seeing that his player had not been awarded the prize, and considered that the gala was not an event in which Real Madrid should participate.
"It wasn't a bad decision, we didn't want to participate because we thought Vinícius deserved the Ballon d'Or and I thought so too, Rodri should have won last year not this year."
Ancelotti's words quickly generated a great deal of controversy in the world of football. Many criticised his attitude, accusing him of being a sore loser and of not recognising the merits of other players. Others, however, defended his right to express his opinion and to stand up for his players, arguing that the Ballon d'Or is a subjective award and that everyone has their own view of who the best player in the world is.
The controversy intensified even further when Ancelotti mentioned that last year, the Ballon d'Or should have gone to Rodri, a Manchester City player, and not to Lionel Messi, who ultimately took the award. These statements were interpreted by many as a direct attack on the Argentine star, who has won the Ballon d'Or eight times, more than any other player in history.
Ancelotti's words not only generated controversy among fans and the media, but also reached the ears of the players themselves. Lionel Messi, when asked about the Italian coach's statements, preferred not to get involved in controversy and simply expressed his respect for Ancelotti and Real Madrid.
Despite the controversy generated, Ancelotti remained firm in his position and did not retract his statements. The Italian coach stated that he does not regret expressing his opinion and that he will continue to defend his players and the club above all else.
The controversy surrounding the Ballon d'Or and Ancelotti's statements highlights the passion and subjectivity that surrounds this award. Every year, the choice of winner generates debates and controversies, and opinions are often divided among fans and experts.
Beyond the controversy, the Ballon d'Or remains the most prestigious and coveted award for football players. Winning it is recognition of an exceptional season and an achievement that is etched in the history of the sport.
Real Madrid's absence from this year's gala and Ancelotti's statements have added another chapter to the history of the Ballon d'Or, an award that, year after year, continues to generate emotions and controversies in the world of football.
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