One of Real Madrid's star attackers has now broken his silence over being left out of the 2024 Ballon d'Or's 30-man shortlist.
Last season, Rodrygo Goes had another prolific campaign for Los Blancos, scoring 17 goals and providing nine assists during the 2023/24 season to help them capture the LALIGA and the UEFA Champions League titles.
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His pivotal role in achieving this domestic and continental success has, however, not been validated by a nomination for this year's Ballon d'Or.
His Real teammates Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, Antonio Rudiger, Dani Carvajal, Federico Valverde and the recently retired Toni Kroos were all included, with the Osasco native's omission having evidently left him unhappy.
"I was upset, I think I deserved it," Rodrygo told ESPN.
"I don't want to belittle the players who are there, but I think I had a place in the 30.
"It was a surprise... But there's not much I can do, I'm not the one who decides these things."
When the nominees for the various Ballon d'Or awards were announced and he was excluded, the 28-cap Brazil international posted a series of photos to social media in which he could be seen lifting the trophies he won with Los Blancos last season, and he revealed this was intentional.
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"I made a somewhat mocking post," Rodrygo added.
"Now, there's not much to say. Everyone knows my indignation. Everyone [has supported me], both in the national team and at Real Madrid. People sent messages."