Real Madrid and Vinicius Jr criticized by USMNT legend after Ballon d'Or "boycott"

TThe 2024 Ballon d'Or controversy is still debated, particularly with the surprise victory of Rodri on the man many thought was the favorite, Vinicius Jr. This situation has sparked mixed reactions, particularly among Real Madrid supporters, who decided not to attend the ceremony to protest against the Brazilian's snub.

Despite the fact that other actors like Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé And Daniel Carvajal were in the top 10, the club decided not to send any representatives to the event, which intensified criticism of the awards.

Lalas against the boycott of Real Madrid

In the midst of this controversy, Alexi Lalasan old one USMNT player, was categorical in his defense of Golden Ball decision. Lala rejected the idea of ​​a “boycott” in Real Madridcommenting that he saw no reason to view the club's reaction as an attack on the award.

“I don't think there's any controversy. I don't think anyone is boycotting this,” he commented on the latest episode of his *State of the Union* podcast.

He said that the Golden Ball has always been dominated by attacking players, because goals are what defines the best, and maintained that at Rodri's the victory was justified. He also disagrees with those who suggest the vote was influenced by political interests and criticizes Real Madrid reaction, calling it “weak”.

“Rodri is just a necessary momentary clean-up, a nod to the less attractive players,” he commented.

Lalas thinks people should pay more attention to other rewards

Instead of following the debate on men Golden BallLalas decided to focus his attention on the women's prize, praising Emma Hayes for his victory in the Johan Cruyff best coach of the year award.

Hayes, who achieved significant success with Chelsea and the United States women's national teamwas recognized for her leadership, which Lala considered fully deserved. This victory was also considered a triumph of American women's footballhighlighting Hayes' role as one of the sport's most influential figures.

“It's well deserved for what she's done, certainly, during this time and throughout her career. That's one of the reasons she was hired, because she's the best, and fortunately, from the American perspective, we have our women leaders,” Lalas concluded.

This contrast between the controversy over men Golden Ball and recognition of Emma Hayes reflects two very different perspectives in the world of football, with Lala firmly aligning itself with the appreciation of talent, both among men and women, and defending fairness in the awarding of prizes.