Spanish media said Tuesday that Real Madrid had cheapened themselves by boycotting the Ballon d’Or ceremony, with even the normally loyal Marca weighing in while Spain’s national coach admitted it was “not good for football”.
Barcelona and Spain star Aitana Bonmati won her second successive Ballon d’Or, after leading her club to a historic continental quadruple of titles.
Real Madrid said they will stay away from the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris on Monday as they are convinced that their striker Vinicius, the favourite to win the men’s award, has been snubbed.
Real Madrid condemned racism from some of their supporters aimed at Barcelona players including teenager Lamine Yamal.
The elite of world football will gather in Paris for the Ballon d’Or ceremony, with Madrid forward Vinicius Junior the leading candidate for the men’s award.
Despite Barcelona’s rapid revival under Hansi Flick, Real Madrid were confident heading into Saturday’s La Liga Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Kylian Mbappe’s start at Real Madrid has been satisfactory, his performances neither spectacular nor underwhelming, but Saturday’s La Liga Clasico offers the French superstar a springboard to kick on from.
La Liga leaders Barcelona visit rivals Real Madrid in a mouthwatering Clasico, aiming to strike a significant blow in the title race.
Spanish police said they had arrested four males suspected of inciting an online hate campaign targeting Real Madrid star Vinicius.
Real Madrid duo Thibaut Courtois and Rodrygo are likely to miss the Clasico clash with La Liga leaders Barcelona on Saturday with injury problems.