Ancelotti Picks Real Madrid Star 'Close to Ballon d’Or' After Champions League Win Over Bayern

• Carlo Ancelotti has backed one of his Real Madrid stars to win the Ballon d'Or
• He made his choice after Madrid's epic fightback win against Bayern Munich
• Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham are now the favourites to win the prize

Carlo Ancelotti has backed one of his Real Madrid stars as a potential winner of the 2024 Ballon d'Or award.

The esteemed Italian coach shared his prediction following Los Blancos' dramatic comeback victory against Bayern Munich on Wednesday night, May 8, securing their place in yet another UEFA Champions League final.

In a thrilling encounter, the 14-time European champions rallied from behind to clinch a 2-1 triumph at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, with substitute Joselu emerging as the hero with a late brace, per Eurosport.

Ballon d'Or 2024: Ancelotti names Bellingham and 1 Real Madrid star who should be joint winners

Football

Despite Alphonso Davies' opener for Bayern, Real Madrid secured a 4-3 aggregate win and booked a showdown with Borussia Dortmund in the final.

While Joselu received acclaim for his decisive contributions, Ancelotti reserved special praise for Vinicius Junior.

The Brazilian winger's electrifying display against the German giants showcased why he is considered one of the best footballers presently.

He tormented the opposition's defence with his blistering pace and skillful dribbling.

Although he didn't find the net against the Bavarians, Vinicius' impact on the game was undeniable, with his speculative shot in the 88th minute igniting Real Madrid's remarkable comeback.

Ancelotti picks Madrid star to win Ballon d'Or

After missing out on the top three last year, Vini Jr. is poised for a podium finish this year, following his La Liga triumph and reaching the Champions League final.

Yet, he'll have to contend with stiff competition from his teammate, Jude Bellingham, who has dazzled in his debut season at Real Madrid.

Madrid wary of 'bestia negra' Bayern in 'European Clasico'

Football

Contenders like Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe saw their prospects diminish after Bayern Munich and PSG's respective UCL semi-final exits, increasing the chances of the former Flamengo sensation.

After Madrid's latest bit of European 'magic', Ancelotti voiced his support for Vini to claim this year's Ballon d'Or.

"I think Viní Jr. is close to winning the Ballon d'Or," the 64-year-old said, as cited by MadridXtra.

Updated Ballon d'Or ranking as Vini climbs up

Sports Brief also recently analysed the implications of the UEFA Champions League semi-final outcomes on the 2024 Ballon d'Or race.

The quest for this year's coveted Golden Ball Award took a captivating twist after the conclusion of the competition's last four stage.

While Bellingham's emergence has garnered attention, Vinicius remains pivotal to Ancelotti's squad, as his statistics reflect thus far.