‘He deserves it’: La Liga president backs Real Madrid superstar for Ballon d’Or

La Liga president Javier Tebas has backed Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr. to win the Ballon d’Or this year.

Vinicius is among the leading contender for this year’s Ballon d’Or, however, he faces a stiff competition from club teammate Jude Bellingham and Manchester City midfielder Rodri.

However, Tebas whom the Brazilian has called out in the past over his lack of action against racism in La Liga claimed that Vinicius is deserving of winning the Ballon d’Or.

The La Liga chief did not shied away from praising the 24-year-old’s quality on the pitch in the past and was vocal about his support.

“Vinicius is a different player. He deserves it,” said Tebas about the Brazilian’s chances of winning the Ballon d’Or, as quoted by COPE.

When asked if another Real Madrid star, Dani Carvajal, who also won the Euros with Spain, can win the coveted individual honour, Tebas downplayed the possibility, saying:

“Let’s be realistic, it is more difficult for Carvajal to win the Ballon d’Or than Vinicius, who I have said for a long time is a star.”

Real Madrid have six current players in the running to win the Ballon d’Or this year and the count goes up to seven when the now-retired Toni Kroos is included.

Apart from Vinicius, Carvajal, and Kroos, the likes of Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, Antonio Rudiger, and Kylian Mbappe are all in the running.