The 2024 Ballon d’Or awards ceremony in Paris ended with Manchester City’s defensive midfielder Rodri taking home the prestigious prize, leaving Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior (Vini Jr) as the runner-up.

Many football fans, players, and analysts had pegged Vini as the favourite, especially after his extraordinary contributions to Madrid's La Liga and Champions League double last season.

Rodri’s triumph over Vini Jr has sparked outrage and raised questions about the award’s criteria. Here’s a look at why many feel that Vini Jr was “robbed” of the award he deserved.

🔥Vini Jr’s Exceptional Season🔥:

Vinícius Júnior’s 2023-24 season was nothing short of extraordinary. He was instrumental in Real Madrid’s remarkable campaign, scoring 24 goals and delivering 11 assists across all competitions, leading the team to a La Liga title and a Champions League victory.

Being the star player for a team that managed to secure both a domestic league and a European trophy is no small feat. His ability to influence big games, particularly in high-pressure moments, set him apart.

In contrast, Rodri had a strong season, anchoring Manchester City’s midfield and playing a pivotal role in their Premier League success and that is just about it. While Spain won the Euro 2024, Rodri’s contributions to that triumph cannot be highlighted as key.

The Spaniard played four games before the final and aside from accumulating yellow cards, which rendered him suspended for Spain’s final Group B game against Albania, he scored one goal in a game Spain won 4-1.

Then in the biggest and most important game of the tournament, the final against England, Rodri could only manage to play just 45 minutes due to injury.

This summed up a rather average showing for the Man City midfielder, who was somehow inexplicably adjudged the best player of the tournament ahead of more deserving candidates like teammates, Fabian Ruiz, Lamine Yamal, and Nico Williams.

While his contributions to City’s Premier League winning season were crucial, his role was more supportive than game-changing and that was made clear in the Premier League Team of the Season Squad released by the Premier League at the end of the 2023/2024 season, where Rodri missed out.

🗣️Outrage from Players, Coaches & Football Fraternity🗣️:

The decision to crown Rodri over Vini has sparked intense backlash on social media. Football fans expressed their outrage on Social Media platform, X, with one X user posting, “Rodri winning this Ballon d’Or is the biggest robbery in football history. Vini has been completely ROBBED.”

Another X user echoed the sentiment, saying, “Vinicius is the real winner and the entire world knows that!” Even players weighed in, with AC Milan’s Rafael Leao subtly sharing his disappointment over the decision by posting an emoji covering its eyes alongside a Vini image.

Retired French Footballer, Frank Ribery posted the words “Ballon d’Or”, along with laughing emojis on his Instagram account. He wasn’t the only one. Players like Sceedorf, Gullit, Benzema, Serge Aurier, and even coaches like Gasperinni of Atlanta.

Many in the football community see this result as an injustice, claiming that Vini Jr’s electrifying impact on the field was overlooked in favor of Rodri’s more subdued but steady contributions.

🤷‍♂️The Jorginho & Luka Modric Cases: A Shift in Ballon d’Or Criteria?🤷‍♂️

In 2020, Chelsea and Italy defensive midfielder, Jorginho, had a stellar club season that was crowned with lifting the UEFA Champions League when his Chelsea side beat Man City in the final. Then he went on to lift the UEFA Euros with Italy that same season, and unlike Rodri he played all the games.

Jorginho was named the UEFA Best Player of the Season unlike Rodri, who missed out on that accolade and for good reason. He was neither the best player in the UEFA Champions League nor the UEFA Euros, although he won that last one shockingly.

Now was it a surprise that Jorginho did not go on to lift the Ballon d’Or that year? No, it wasn’t, because while Jroginho’s Chelsea lifted the UCL and his Italy lifted the Euros, he wasn’t the Best Player for either Chelsea or Italy.

Aside from that, his Chelsea had a bad league season and he wasn’t particularly a standout for them in the league, so the world understood when Bayern’s Lewandoski at the time, lifted the FIFA Best Player for his Golden Boot winning 43 goals in that season, which broke Gerd Muller’s 39-year long record for the most goals in a season by a Bundesliga player.

So the question is if Jorginho was not named the Ballon d’Or winner or FIFA Best Player that year for all his exploits in UEFA Competitions and not just one (the Euros), why was Rodri?

Some believe Luka Modric’s Ballon d’Or win in 2018 should justify Rodri’s but it could never because, unlike Rodri, Luka won the FIFA World Cup Golden Ball (Best Player) after leading his Croatia to the final of the FIFA World Cup in a season he won the UEFA Player of the Season after lifting the Champions League with Real Madrid.

So really the question is did Vini Jr lose the Ballon d’Or because he scored only two goals in two games for Brazil in the Copa America, or because got into altercations with opponent players who provoked him like a human being?

🔗You can check out & follow Vini Jr’s Real Madrid & Rodri’s Man City games here on MSport.

Manchester City vs Arsenal (England) – The New Rivalry 2024:

The rivalry between Manchester City and Arsenal has recently escalated into one of the fiercest contests in the Premier League. With City under Pep Guardiola's stewardship becoming the dominant force in English football, Arsenal, led by Mikel Arteta, have emerged as serious challengers, battling for the title.

Last season, City pipped Arsenal in the title race, sparking anticipation for future encounters. The tactical brilliance of both managers ensures that this clash is more than just a game— as was shown in last week’s 2-2 draw at the Etihad in what was a battle of minds and ideologies.

City’s deep squad and proven winners contrasted with Arsenal’s youthful exuberance, making their encounters gripping. The outcome often shapes the title race, creating a new layer of animosity between fans and players alike, making this rivalry one to watch in the coming seasons.

Manchester City vs Liverpool (England) - Klopp vs Guardiola Era 2022:

The rivalry between Manchester City and Liverpool during the Klopp-Guardiola era is one of modern football’s finest. As Liverpool sought to break City’s dominance, both clubs battled for supremacy in the Premier League and Europe.

Guardiola's City often boasted a superior squad, while Klopp's heavy-metal football made Liverpool the perfect foil, especially during their successful 2019-20 title campaign.

This rivalry is a tactical masterclass, with high stakes every time they meet. Klopp and Guardiola’s personal and professional respect had added a layer of intrigue, with each contest potentially deciding who reigned supreme in English football.

Manchester City vs Manchester United (England) - The Manchester Derby 2021:

The Manchester Derby remains a high-octane affair, with both Manchester United and Manchester City battling for local pride. Historically, United dominated, but City’s rise under Guardiola has flipped the script.

United, under Erik ten Hag, are eager to restore their place at the top, making these clashes about more than just bragging rights—it’s about re-establishing dominance in Manchester and beyond.

With City now seen as the superior side in terms of recent achievements, United’s fans demand a response. These intense battles fuel the long-standing rivalry between the clubs and their supporters with the two Manchester clubs, United led by Ole, placing 1st and 2nd in the league in 2021.

Bayern Munich vs Borussia Dortmund (Germany) - Der Klassiker 2023:

Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund’s "Der Klassiker" is the defining rivalry in German football. As Dortmund surged under Jurgen Klopp, they became Bayern’s closest competitors for domestic glory.

Bayern, however, consistently managed to outmuscle their rivals, regularly beating them on the field and off the field when they snatched their players and bullied them financially.

This rivalry embodies contrasting football philosophies: Bayern’s clinical, possession-based style against Dortmund’s high-intensity, attacking play. Every meeting between these two clubs often decides the fate of the Bundesliga, fuelling a bitter but respectful rivalry.

AC Milan vs Inter Milan (Italy) - The Milan Derby 2024:

The Milan Derby, or Derby della Madonnina, has long been one of Italy’s premier rivalries, with AC Milan and Inter Milan fighting for city supremacy. Both teams have experienced a resurgence in recent years, reclaiming their status as Serie A powerhouses.

The rivalry is steeped in history, but recent clashes have had title implications, intensifying the competition.

Their shared San Siro stadium adds another layer of drama, with fans of both sides turning every encounter into a spectacle. Whether it's Inter’s defensive solidity or Milan’s attacking flair, each derby captivates global audiences.

Real Madrid vs Barcelona (Spain) - El Clásico 2024:

El Clásico, the battle between Real Madrid and Barcelona, is the pinnacle of football rivalries. This fixture, featuring the world’s most celebrated players, has long shaped Spanish football’s title race.

The deep-rooted political and cultural differences between Madrid, representing the wider Spanish population, and Barcelona, embodying Catalan identity, fuel the intensity of every match.

Whether during the Messi-Ronaldo era or the current generation, El Clásico transcends football, captivating audiences worldwide as Real and Barca fight for both domestic and European dominance.

Celtic vs Rangers (Scotland) - The Old Firm Derby 2024:

The Old Firm Derby between Celtic and Rangers is more than a football match—it’s a clash of cultures, religion, and identity in Scotland. As the dominant forces in Scottish football, their rivalry has transcended the sport, spilling into broader societal tensions.

Celtic’s Catholic heritage and Rangers’ Protestant roots mean that these encounters are always heated and volatile.

While Rangers’ recent resurgence has reignited the battle for Scottish supremacy, Celtic’s continued success ensures that every Old Firm Derby is more than just a game—it's a battle for the heart of Scottish football.

Bayern Munich vs Bayer Leverkusen (Germany) 2024:

While not as traditional as Bayern's rivalry with Dortmund, Bayern Munich vs Bayer Leverkusen has become an important fixture in recent seasons, with Leverkusen shocking the entire world in 2024 by lifting the German Bundesliga title and going unbeaten while doing it.

Leverkusen’s attacking style, led by young talent, has made them one of the few teams capable of troubling Bayern’s dominance in the Bundesliga.

Though Bayern continues to dominate the league, Leverkusen’s rise ensures this matchup remains a pivotal moment in the Bundesliga season, with potential title implications on the line.

You can check out today's games on MSport here.

Thanks to former manager Mauricio Pochettino, now in charge of the USA men’s national team, Chelsea finished 6th in the EPL last season, which earned them a spot in the newly reformed UEFA Conference League.

Under new manager Enzo Maresca, the Blues took this opportunity and turned it into reality by winning a two-legged play-off against another European club that had just lost in the Europa League third-round qualifiers.

Before diving into Chelsea’s journey to the UEFA Conference League, let’s look at the history of this competition and what changes mean for the London-based club.

UEFA Conference League: Tournament History:

The UEFA Europa Conference League was introduced in 2021/22 as the third UEFA men’s football club competition. It aims to make continental football more inclusive by involving a wider range of associations.

The tournament runs on Thursday nights alongside the UEFA Europa League, featuring over 170 teams throughout the season, including at least one from each UEFA association.

Previous winners include Roma (2022), West Ham United (2023), and Olympiacos (2024). This season, the competition has been renamed the UEFA Conference League.

What is the New Format?

The 2024/25 season brings significant changes to the Conference League. The group stage has been replaced by a single 36-team league, where each side faces six different teams (three at home, three away).

The top eight teams advance directly to the round of 16, while those finishing ninth to 24th enter a knockout play-off round for a spot among the final 16. All knockout ties are played over two legs.

How Did Chelsea Qualify for the UECL Draw?

Chelsea's entry into the UEFA Conference League marks a new chapter in their European journey. After missing out on the UEFA Champions League and Europa League, they had to win a play-off round against Swiss side Servette, who had lost to Braga in a Europa League play-off.

Chelsea secured their spot in the league phase with a narrow 3-2 aggregate victory. Christopher Nkunku's penalties in both legs and Noni Madueke’s goal at Stamford Bridge sealed their qualification. As the highest-ranked team in the competition, Chelsea was placed in Pot 1 for the league phase draw.

Analysis of the Draw:

Chelsea will face six different teams in their first Conference League campaign. The Blues were drawn against Gent (Belgium) at home, Heidenheim (Germany) away, Astana (Kazakhstan) away, Shamrock Rovers (Republic of Ireland) at home, Panathinaikos (Greece) away, and Noah (Armenia) at home.

While Chelsea has faced teams from Belgium, Germany, and Greece before, this will be their first competitive meeting with clubs from Kazakhstan, the Republic of Ireland, and Armenia.

Gent and Panathinaikos could present a tougher challenge, whereas matches against Shamrock Rovers and Noah might offer opportunities for squad rotation.

The draw for the group stage took place yesterday and pitted Chelsea at home to Gent, Shamrock Rovers and FC Noah. Our away matches take place against Heidenheim, FC Astana and Panathinaikos.

Chelsea’s Confirmed UEFA Conference League Fixtures:

UEFA have since confirmed the dates and UK kick-off times for each fixture, which are as follows...

Thursday, 3 October

Chelsea vs Gent

Kick-off: 8pm

 

Thursday, 24 October

Panathinaikos vs Chelsea

Kick-off: 5.45pm

 

Thursday, 7 November

Chelsea vs FC Noah

Kick-off: 8pm

Thursday, 28 November

Heidenheim vs Chelsea

Kick-off: 5.45pm

 

Thursday, 12 December

FC Astana vs Chelsea

Kick-off: 3.30pm

 

Thursday, 19 December

Chelsea vs Shamrock Rovers

Kick-off: 8pm.

Chelsea's Chances of Progression:

Chelsea’s chances of advancing to the knockout stages appear promising. As the top-most-ranked team with substantial European experience and a deep squad, the Blues are favourites to progress from the league phase.

Key players like Cole Palmer and Nicholas Jackson, both of whom saw their Chelsea contracts extended recently, and Noni Madueke, have already shown their importance with their stellar performances for Chelsea already this season.

However, with the news of Cole Palmer being dropped from Chelsea’s squad for the UEFA Conference League, manager Enzo Maresca, will have to find a way to not only field a strong team without the English star but settle on a tactical approach that will Chelsea handle the diverse styles they will encounter in these away grounds.

However, complacency could be dangerous. Away fixtures, especially against teams like Astana and Heidenheim, could pose challenges due to unfamiliar environments and local conditions.

Conclusion:

Chelsea's journey in the UEFA Conference League promises excitement and opportunity. With a favourable draw and a strong squad, they have a good chance to progress and possibly win the competition.

Success in the Conference League would add a European trophy to Chelsea’s collection and set a strong foundation under Enzo Maresca’s leadership. The upcoming matches will be crucial in defining the season, and fans are eager to see how the team performs on this new stage.

 

You can check out and bet on Chelsea’s UEFA Conference League games here on MSport.