The host reflected on the title of Best Player in the World awarded to the Real Madrid player by FIFA
Milton Neves celebrated Vinícius Júnior’s recognition. The Real Madrid number 7 was named the The Best player in the world for 2024 at an event organized by FIFA on Tuesday (17).
In his column for UOL Esporte, the commentator described Vinícius Júnior’s award as a compensation for what he considered an ‘injustice’ when Vini Jr lost to Rodri in the Ballon d’Or in October.
“Vinícius Júnior is below Neymar”
Additionally, Milton Neves made a comparison between Vini Jr and Neymar. The journalist pointed out that the forward currently playing for Al-Hilal has never managed to win FIFA’s The Best award or the Ballon d’Or from France Football magazine.
According to the broadcaster, Neymar, at the peak of his career, faced competition from other legends who were also at their zenith, such as Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Thus, Milton Neves reached a conclusion.The columnist believes that despite Vinícius Júnior winning an award no other Brazilian has achieved since Kaká in 2007, Neymar still remains one step ahead of the Real Madrid forward.
“Vini is young and certainly has the potential to surpass Neymar’s global significance in football at some point. However, at the moment, such comparisons shouldn’t even be considered,” stated the host.
Milton Neves criticized Rodri
Furthermore, Milton Neves once again downplayed Vinícius Júnior’s biggest competitor for the FIFA award, who defeated the Brazilian player in the Ballon d’Or rankings.
According to the commentator, Spanish midfielder Rodri, from Manchester City, is merely an ‘average’ player. “He shouldn’t even be in the top-10,” he remarked.
Previously, Milton Neves had dismissed Rodri’s abilities, ranking the Spanish national team player below other athletes in the same position such as Clodoaldo, Alexandre Gallo, and Carlinhos Violino.
