Brazilian player Vanderson, Monaco’s right-back, stated on Tuesday that "the true winner" of the 2024 Ballon d'Or is Vinícius Júnior, who missed out on the prestigious award after receiving fewer votes than Spanish midfielder Rodri.

"Without intending to cause controversy, for me, the real winner of the Ballon d'Or is Vinícius Júnior. He had an excellent season and is having another outstanding one," declared the defender during a press conference in Belém, where the Brazilian national team is currently training.

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The Brazilian squad, led by Vini, is preparing in the capital of the Amazonian state of Pará for their upcoming matches against Venezuela and Uruguay in the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.

However, Vanderson believes that the Real Madrid winger will win the Ballon d'Or "very soon."

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"He's a player who deserves it, who fights on and off the pitch, and he will achieve it very soon, I have no doubt about that," he added.

The five-time World Cup champions will face La Vinotinto this Thursday in Maturín and will have a tough test against Uruguay on the 19th in Salvador.

After a rocky start, Brazil currently sits in fourth place in the World Cup qualifiers, with 16 points and a record of five wins, one draw, and four losses.