Neymar Hits Back at Rodri Over Vinícius Junior Comments

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  • Manchester City star Rodri has once again given his honest thoughts about Ballon d’Or rival Vinicius Junior
  • But Brazil playmaker Neymar was unimpressed with the Spain international's remarks, responding with a sly dig
  • 28-year-old Rodri defeated Vinicius Junior to win the 2024 Ballon d'Or award nearly two weeks ago

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Neymar has fired a sharp retort at Manchester City midfielder Rodri after his comments about Real Madrid star Vinícius Junior sparked controversy.

Rodri won the 2024 Ballon d’Or on October 28, edging out other top contenders, including Vinícius Junior.

Rodri has given his honest thoughts about Ballon d’Or rival Vinicius Junior but Neymar is not happy with his comments. Photos: Alexander Hassenstein/Franck Fife.
Source: Getty Images

The Real Madrid winger had been tipped as a potential winner but missed out, with Los Blancos opting not to attend the Paris ceremony despite being named "Club of the Year," per Yahoo Sports.

Following his victory, Rodri offered advice for Vinícius during an interview with El Larguero.

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"I think he’s a smart guy, and with time, he’ll realise that the more you pay attention on the field, the better. Athletes are not just about what they represent on the field, but also off it," Rodri said.

Neymar fires back at Rodri on social media

The remarks didn’t sit well with Neymar, Vinícius’s Brazil teammate.

The Al Hilal forward responded on Instagram, commenting on Futeousadia’s post:

"Virou falador agora" ("He’s a talker now").

Neymar has been vocal in his admiration for Vinícius, calling him a "great idol" and the "hero of Brazil" in a previous interview.

He also expressed confidence that Vinícius is destined to win the Ballon d’Or in the future.

The ex-Barcelona man has also never won the Ballon d’Or despite arguably being one of the best players over the last 15 years.

Rodri aims another jab at Vinicius

In a related report by YEN.com.gh, Rodri appeared to take a subtle jab at Vinicius Junior just weeks after surpassing him to win the Golden Ball.

When asked who could reach the legendary heights of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, the Spanish midfielder notably omitted Vinicius from his response.

2024 Ballon d’Or Winner Rodri Explains Why Ronaldo Is ‘Deadly’, but Messi Is ‘Dangerous’2024 Ballon d'Or winner Rodri has shared his insight on the never-ending GOAT debate, explaining the difference between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.by  Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe, 21 Nov 2024

This leaves the debate open over who will succeed Ronaldo and Messi as the greatest in football history.

Rodri downplays Vinicius as a top contender

YEN.com.gh further highlighted Rodri’s remarks on the Ballon d'Or outcome involving Real Madrid, where he downplayed Vinicius Junior’s claim as a top contender.

Rodri suggested that his Spain teammate Dani Carvajal had a more compelling case for the award than Vinicius.

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Source: YEN.com.gh