Tottenham star Richarlison sends message to Vinicius Junior after bust-up
Tottenham striker Richarlison went on a furious social media tirade after international teammate Vinicius Junior lost out on the Ballon d’Or.
Vinicius, 24, had been favourite to win football’s most prestigious individual award but ultimately came second best with Man City’s Rodri taking the trophy home.
Real Madrid were furious, refusing to attend the ceremony in Paris despite being named the Men’s Club of the Year and manager Carlo Ancelotti winning the Coach of the Year award.
The Brazillian winger was integral for the Spanish giants last season, scoring 24 goals and providing 11 assists as they secured a memorable La Liga and Champions League double.
This season he’s been equally as impressive, bagging eight goals and providing seven assists as the club try to find a way to accommodate him and new signing Kylian Mbappe.
Tottenham ace Richarlison backs Vinicius Junior after Ballon d’Or controversy
Richarlison, 27, hasn’t made an appearance for the Brazil national team since May but remains a popular figure amongst his international teammates.
While his form at club level has been inconsistent, to say the least, Richarlison has found solace in international football, scoring 20 goals in 48 appearances.
Furious with the decision to award Rodri the Ballon d’Or, the striker took to Instagram to let the world know exactly how he feels.
Translated to English from its original Portuguese, the lengthy caption says, “All of us who live soccer look forward to the individual awards with great anxiety each season. Today, all Brazilians who love football woke up expecting to see another player from our country win a award of the best in the world after so long.
“Unfortunately, by criteria no one can understand, the prize did not come. And don’t get me wrong, Rodri is a bad player who deserves to be among the best. But Vini not getting that Ballon d’Or was embarrassing, and the only person who lost today was football.
“I remember Vini saying his dream was to see all Brazil cheering for him. And that day was today! You are giant and the best in the world, kido! And no trophy will change that. Move forward and never be quiet! We’re all together!”
In other news, Tottenham insider shares ‘definite’ Pedro Porro to Man City claim.
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