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Star-Studded Arrival in Paris
Football’s biggest names graced the red carpet at the prestigious Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris on Monday night, showcasing not only their style but also the ongoing tensions surrounding the event. Manchester City midfielder Rodri made a notable appearance on crutches, accompanied by his partner Laura Iglesias, as he recovers from an ACL injury.
Real Madrid Boycott Sparks Debate
The absence of Real Madrid players at the ceremony has stirred controversy. The club announced it would not send representatives, citing a lack of respect from the event’s organisers and UEFA. This boycott comes as Rodri is anticipated to claim the men’s top prize, overshadowing Real Madrid stars like Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham.
Stars from All Walks of Life Attend
Despite the boycott, the event was a magnet for talent, featuring Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane, who donned a sharp suit and bow tie. Young sensation Lamine Yamal from Barcelona was also spotted, along with Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho and Aston Villa’s Emi Martinez, who arrived with their partners.
Football Legends and Hollywood A-Listers Join the Festivities
The ceremony was not limited to current players. Football legends such as Luis Figo, Didier Drogba, Djibril Cisse, and Clarence Seedorf added to the star power. The presence of Hollywood actress Natalie Portman further highlighted the event’s appeal beyond the footballing world.
Voting Process Under Scrutiny
The Ballon d’Or is determined by a panel of journalists from the top 100 nations in FIFA rankings. With six Real Madrid stars nominated, including Vinicius, who had an impressive season with 24 goals and 11 assists, the stakes were high. However, Real Madrid’s statement questioned the award criteria, suggesting that if Vinicius was not chosen, then fellow teammate Carvajal should have been, indicating a perceived bias against the club.
