Manager of Real Madrid Carlo Ancelotti thinks Vinicius Junior has a chance to win the Golden Ball in the future.

AHEAD OF TIME? Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti believes Vincius will win the title of greatest footballer in the world “soon”. After tallying 23 goals and dishing out 19 assists in all competitions in the previous season, the Brazilian has emerged as a key member of Los Blancos. It comes as no surprise to Vinicius’ manager that he has been shortlisted for the 2023 Ballon d’Or.

WHAT THEY SAID: When asked if his striker could win the prized trophy following Real Madrid’s Champions League victory against Braga on Tuesday, he responded, “Yes, Vinícius will win it soon,” to TNT Sports.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Lionel Messi is the clear favorite to win the trophy for a record eighth time, having led Argentina to World Cup victory in Qatar last year. Vinicius will undoubtedly have to wait to raise the Golden Ball. Jude Bellingham, the Brazilian’s teammate at Madrid, is probably going to compete against him in the future. Bellingham has had an incredible start to his career at the Santiago Bernabeu, and according to some, he is currently the finest player in the world.

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WHAT NEXT? Real Madrid and Vinicius are back in La Liga action on Saturday when they take on Barcelona in the first Clasico of the new season.