Real Madrid star knows he'll be winner of 2024 Ballon d'Or award: Reports

Real Madrid attacker Vinicius Jr is reportedly aware that he will lift the 2024 Ballon d'Or trophy. According to Spanish outlet Marca, the Brazilian winger is set to win the prestigious award handed out by France Football for the first time in his career.

The 24-year-old will be beating off some tough competition, with teammate Jude Bellingham and Manchester City midfielder Rodri also in the running.

Vinicius had a great 2023-24 season for Real Madrid as the Spanish giants won the Champions League as well as La Liga. In all, he made 39 appearances, collecting 24 goals and 11 assists.

Bellingham also enjoyed a memorable debut season with Los Blancos, bagging 23 goals and 13 assists in 42 games. He also helped England reach the final of the 2024 Euros.

Rodri had a splendid campaign last time out as well. The star midfielder helped Manchester City win the Premier League while also playing a key role in Spain's Euros triumph. With an impressive 23 goal contributions across all competitions, he proved to be a vital asset to both Pep Guardiola and Luis de la Fuente.

Thibaut Courtois responds after Real Madrid star expresses unhappiness with Ballon d'Or shortlist

Rodrygo was omitted from the 30-man shortlist for the Ballon d'Or.

Thibaut Courtois has suggested that Rodrygo's importance to Real Madrid is well recognized by the players in the dressing room. This comes after the winger was left out of the shortlist for the 2024 Ballon d'Or.

Earlier, Rodrygo had stated that he was frustrated with the snub (via ESPN):

"I was upset, I think I deserved it. I don't want to belittle the players who are there, but I think I had a place in the 30. It was a surprise... But there's not much I can do, I'm not the one who decides these things."

Courtois responded to the Brazilian's comments, saying (via Madrid Xtra on X):

"Journalists put Jude’s, Vini’s, and Mbappé’s letters. But in the dressing room, we know Rodrygo’s importance and quality."

"I don’t think Rodrygo needs to be upset, but if he plays better when he’s upset, then go ahead and be upset (laughs).”

Rodrygo was one of Real Madrid's most used attackers last season. In all, he made 51 appearances across all competitions, collecting 17 goals and nine assists. This included a vital goal against Manchester City in the quarterfinals of the Champions League.

His teammates Vinicius Jr, Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe are all in with a chance to lift the Ballon d'Or on October 28 in Paris.