The Real Madrid striker was considered a favorite for the award, but is expected to lose to Rodri, from Manchester City

Following rumors that Brazilian striker Vinícius Jr. should lose the Ballon d’Or to midfielder Rodri (Manchester City) this Monday (28), Spanish journalist L. Miguel Sanz criticized the Brazilian player for his attitudes and “values” and celebrated the possible award for the midfielder. The article was published by Sport, a Catalan outlet.

The journalist compared the two players and said that the award represents more than goals and performance, calling it the “Golden Ball of values”. “It’s not just about winning and scoring goals here,” said Sanz.

The Spaniard also suggested that Vinicius Jr., recognized for his fight against racism, “has a lot to learn” in relation to attitudes and respect on the field. “His continuous protests and provocations, his reprehensible acts on the field and the feeling that he is not learning have certainly taken away his votes,” he wrote.

Rumors that the Brazilian striker would lose the award began after information that the player and Real Madrid themselves decided not to attend the event. The information about Vini Jr.’s absence from the awards was initially released by RMC Sport, from France, and confirmed by Estadão. According to information from the newspaper Marca, 50 people from the Real Madrid delegation would travel to France this Monday.

Real’s decision not to attend the ceremony indirectly causes rumors that the winner would be the midfielder from the Spanish national team and Manchester City. The information that Real Madrid withdrew the award for Vini Jr.’s defeat was also communicated by Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Vini Jr.’s staff did not confirm whether they had access to any information about the results of the award, which will only be announced at 4pm (Brasília time) this Monday, at a ceremony in Paris. Englishman Jude Bellingham, also from Real Madrid, is also in the running among the favorites for the award. And it won’t be on site either.

The Real Madrid striker had been considered a favorite for months, since winning the last edition of the Champions League, the Merengue club’s 15th. The Spanish press, such as the newspaper Marca, even named him as the winner in the dispute over the last month.

*With information from Agência Estadão