Real Madrid winger Rodrygo admitted that he was “upset” about being snubbed at the men’s Ballon d’Or shortlist.
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Rodrygo “upset” over Ballon d’Or snub
Rodrygo, 23, helped the Spanish club win a La Liga and Champions League double last season.
Meanwhile, Madrid teammates Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, Antonio Rudiger, and Dani Carvajal, along with the recently retired Toni Kroos and new signing Kylian Mbappe, were nominated.
However, Rodrygo’s name was absent from the 30-man shortlist.
The Ballon d’Or winner will be announced at a ceremony in Paris on October 28.
“I was upset, I think I deserved it,” Rodrygo told ESPN in an exclusive interview on Sunday. “I don’t want to belittle the players who are there, but I think I had a place in the 30. It was a surprise… But there’s not much I can do, I’m not the one who decides these things.”
Rodrygo throws shade
Rodrygo recently shared a series of photos on his Instagram story, showing himself lifting trophies with Madrid, accompanied by a laughing emoji.
The Brazil international said he was playfully throwing shade at his Ballon d’Or snub.
“I made a somewhat mocking post,” he said. “Now there’s not much to say. Everyone knows my indignation. Everyone [has supported me], both in the national team and at Real Madrid. People sent messages.”
Rodrygo scored 10 goals in 34 La Liga appearances last season and added five more in the Champions League.
Despite facing increased competition following Mbappé’s arrival, club manager Carlo Ancelotti has continued to include him in the three-man forward line so far this season.
Rodrygo admitted that his versatility has sometimes hindered his progress, particularly with the Brazil.
“Often, I’m just filling spaces,” Rodrygo said. “Is someone missing there? Put Rodrygo in. Is someone missing on the right? Rodrygo
