Vinícius Júnior, Real Madrid striker, is the most likely player to win the prestigious Ballon d’Or, according to projections from the main bookmakers.
After standing out in the Champions League campaign that led Real Madrid to yet another decision, the Brazilian striker gained favorite status in the annual awards given by “France Football” magazine.
According to the ‘OddsChecker‘ platform, responsible for monitoring the global betting market, the chances of Vinícius Júnior winning the best player in the world award vary between 1.2 and 1.5. This analysis reflects the public’s confidence in the Brazilian player’s abilities and performance.
This indicates that bettors who opt for Vini will have the chance to obtain between 20% and 50% of profit on the amount bet, if he wins the prize.
Vini Jr. x Bellingham and other Ballon d’Or candidates
In a study that considers the odds of 26 of the main sports betting platforms, Vinícius Júnior’s main competitor in the race for the Ballon d’Or is Englishman Jude Bellingham.
Interestingly, Bellingham is his teammate at Real Madrid. Thus, the odds of Bellingham winning as the best player in the world vary between 2 and 2.5 to 1. Thus, with an exceptionally high odds of 3.5 to 1 in some bookmakers.
Both players have very similar stats this season. While Bellingham has accumulated 22 goals and 10 assists in 2023/24, Vinícius Júnior has scored 21 times and contributed 11 assists to his teammates.
Vinícius’ difference is his recent performance and his influence in the knockout games of the Champions League, a competition that historically plays a crucial role in determining the best players in the world in years without a World Cup.
On the other hand, Bellingham still has the opportunity to strengthen its chances of winning if it performs exceptionally well at Euro 2024, a competition with greater potential for influence than the Copa América, in which Vinícius will be competing.
In addition to Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham, other players such as Kylian Mbappé and Harry Kane are also considered strong candidates for the Ballon d’Or. Their odds vary between 5 and 8 to 1. These players’ performance in the Champions League and Euros can also increase their chances of winning.
Brazilian traditions and upcoming challenges
Despite not winning the award for best player in the world for more than 15 years, since Kaká’s victory in 2007, Brazil maintains a remarkable tradition in these elections.
Since the 1990s, Brazilians have dominated FIFA’s election as the best player in the world. Five players from the country were honored with the award, highlighting the influence and talent of Brazilian football on a global scale.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid are preparing for the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund on June 1. Recently the team won the La Lig (Spanish Championship) title.
The next games between Vini and Bellingham’s team in La Liga could serve as preparation for the final at Wembley. The Spanish club is looking for its 15th European Champions title, while Dortmund is looking for its second continental victory.
