Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti provides his Ballon d’Or pick

Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti has on Thursday revealed his favourite to lift the Ballon d’Or trophy.

As much, of course, comes with the two leading candidates to be named world football’s finest both plying their trade in his Blancos squad.

Owing to their respective exploits en route to a domestic and European double last season, Vinícius Jr. and Jude Bellingham have long been earmarked as nos. 1 and 2 for the Ballon d’Or.

Some contention remains when it comes to which is more deserving, with midfielder Bellingham having dominated the opening half of the term, and wide-man Vinícius having taken over following the turn of the year.

It is the latter, as things stand, though, who currently boasts slight frontrunner status with the bookmakers.

And in agreement that, when all is said and done, Vini would be a deserving winner, comes the aforementioned Carlo Ancelotti.

Speaking during an appearance on John Obi Mikel’s Obi One Podcast, Real Madrid’s headmaster was asked for his take on the Ballon d’Or race.

And Ancelotti, in his response, began:

“It’s true that Carvajal did really well, because he won the league, the Champions League and scored [in the final], and won the EURO. But Vinícius, talented player, young, good image, won the league, won the Champions League scoring in the final and semi-final. He scored 2 in Munich. And Jude had a fantastic season. Winning the Champions League, winning the league, and it was a big surprise. The best player of the league season. Rodri also is a fantastic midfielder, one of the best midfielders in the competition, and consistent.”

In conclusion, though, the Italian added:

“In my opinion, I think Vinícius will win it.”

Conor Laird | GSFN