opinionMan City legend puts 'entitled' Real Madrid in their place amid Benzema and Paqueta comments

 

It has been almost 48 hours since Man City star Rodri was crowned the world's best footballer and the fallout and bitter reaction from Madrid is showing no signs of slowing down

The Spanish and European champions boycotted the Ballon d'Or awards ceremony in Paris on Monday after their star player Vinicius Junior finished second behind City's star midfielder.

The Brazilian international helped Real win the Champions League and La Liga last term and was joined by club team-mates Jude Bellingham (third) and Dani Carvajal (fourth) in the top four in the voting.

City forward Erling Haaland rounded off the top five as he, alongside Rodri, won the Premier League last term. Rodri also inspired Spain to EURO 2024 glory in the summer - a feat Vinicius could not replicate at international level as Brazil slumped to a disappointing quarter-finals exit at Copa America

Despite scoring less goals than a host of other players last season, Los Blancos felt strongly that Vinicius was the rightful winner of the award.

They cited a lack of respect from UEFA, while simultaneously showing just that to City and Rodri with their response since he was moved to tears on stage when receiving the award.

And the responses have continued this morning. Former Real Madrid star and 2022 Ballon d'Or winner Karim Benzema offered a bizarre take, as he said: "I spoke to Vini, he’s sad… it’s also normal. He deserved to win the Ballon d’Or.

I’ve nothing against Rodri, good player… but I’m in my sofa watching TV and Rodri doesn’t do anything that makes you say: wow!"

And Vini's Brazilian team-mate Lucas Paqueta also chimed in. “Just so you know that I’m proud to say I’m your friend, that I admire you and root for you more than any victory of mine! 

admire his story and the person you became! You are the greatest! Even if they say otherwise! I love you and we are closer than ever! Forward ever Vini Jr.”

The West Ham midfielder has been heavily linked with a move to City in the past and if that interest was to ever be revisited, it could well be an awkward welcome now.

It has all become nauseating and former City forward Sergio Aguero has perhaps summed up the thoughts of City fans, and even most neutrals, on the over the top response from Madrid.

Well deserved," he said. "Rodri is the best player in the World. Football is for everyone not just Real Madrid, they are so entitled.

Of course, Aguero's ties to Real's biggest rivals Barcelona and Atletico Madrid mean the comments will not go down well at the Bernabeu. But his brutal put down should put them back in their place and draw a line under this tiresome saga

Rodri is also a great player. Both enjoyed excellent seasons and both could have won the award without any controversy. It's about time those in Madrid realised that.