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Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has been awarded the Men's Johan Cruyff Trophy at the 2024 Ballon d'Or ceremony for his achievements from the dugout in the 2023-24 season. The Italian tactician guided Los Blancos to a fabulous campaign domestically and on the continent, which culminated in a LaLiga and UEFA Champions League double.
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The 65-year-old manager is enjoying a strong second stint in charge of Los Blancos since his return in 2021. He has claimed two UEFA Champions League crowns with the club and two league titles, averaging 2.28 points a game.
However, the Real Madrid boss was not in attendance to claim the prize after Carlo Ancelotti and the rest of the Los Blancos delegation opted to boycott the event.
"Vinicius Junior will win" - When Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti predicted the winner of the 2024 Ballon d'Or
Last week, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti confidently stated that Vinicius Junior will claim the 2024 Ballon d'Or prize today in Paris. The Brazilian winger was scintillating for Los Blancos last season and was a vital part of the team that secured a continental double.
The Brazilian has continued his fine form in this campaign and bagged a phenomenal hat-trick in the UEFA Champions League against last season's defeated finalists, Borussia Dortmund. His impressive display pleased his manager, who proudly told the press after the match (via SPORTbible):
"Vinicius Junior will win the Ballon d’Or, in my opinion. He will get the award."
Despite the Italian tactician's claims, reports suggest that the Brazilian star has been snubbed for the award in favor of Manchester City midfielder Rodri. Carlo Ancelotti and the club's delegation have opted to boycott the event as a result, with RMC Sports journalist Fabrice Hawkins claiming (via SPORTbible):
“Real Madrid's directors are furious. They are certain that Vini Jr will not win the Ballon d'Or. The Real delegation remains in Spain.”
The five-time UEFA Champions League winner and his side are currently nursing a 4-0 battering at the hands of their eternal rivals Barcelona and now sit six points behind the Catalan side in the league table. Los Blancos next visit Valencia on November 2, where they will try to return to winning ways.
