Vinicius Junior: Real Madrid Star Named Best Player in the World by Bayern Defender After UCL Clash

• Real Madrid's Vinicius has been branded as the best player in the world
• He received the accolade after his display in the UCL semis vs Bayern
• The Madrid star is among the top contenders to win the 2024 Ballon d'Or

Real Madrid forward, Vinicius Junior, has been named the best player in the world at the moment, according to Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt.

The Brazilian winger once again shone brightest on the grandest stage of the UEFA Champions League, playing a pivotal role in Los Blancos' journey to yet another final.

Although he didn't find the back of the net, Vinicius dazzled with his runs, skillful dribbling, and unwavering determination, inspiring his team's epic comeback.

Who Zinedine Zidane picked between Messi and Ronaldo in GOAT debate

Football

His speculative shot in the 88th minute led to the crucial equalising goal scored by substitute Joselu Luis Mato.

After the game, de Ligt, whose team was eliminated from the Champions League by Vini's Madrid, expressed frustration over his disallowed stoppage-time goal.

"I think we all know the rules. If the offside call is not clear, you have to play on! This is the rule! I find it a little bit of a disgrace.

"Joselu's goal was also almost offside, and they keep on playing, so why not with us?" De Ligt said, as quoted by ESPN.

De Ligt names Vinicius as best player in the world

Despite his frustration with the referee's decision, the former Ajax and Juventus defender had words of praise for Vinicius, acknowledging him as the best player currently on the planet.

Vinicius Junior flaunts beautiful mom in heartwarming photo, share close-up moment as fans react

Football

“Vinicius? For me, maybe now he is the best player in the world,” he said, as cited by MadridXtra.

The former Flamengo sensation, often heralded as one of the successors to the Lionel Messi-Cristiano Ronaldo GOAT throne, has truly shone in recent times, particularly as the season reaches its climax.

It's no surprise that he's garnered such high praise.

Ancelotti backs Vini for 2024 Ballon d'Or prize

Sports Brief also reported that Carlo Ancelotti, buoyed by Real Madrid's latest European success, has backed Vini for the 2024 Ballon d'Or Award.

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

However, he faces stiff competition from teammate Jude Bellingham, who has dazzled in his debut season at Real Madrid.