Former Argentina and Manchester City striker Kun Aguero has praised the recent performances of Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, and Vinicius Jr, Soccernet.football reports.
However, Aguero believes that while all three have been exceptional, Vinicius Jr is the most deserving of succeeding Lionel Messi as the Ballon d’Or winner.
This year’s race for the World Footballer of the Year is very close, with no single player standing out.
Mbappe, despite his club success, faced disappointment with France, and Bellingham experienced heartbreak with England as Spain overcame both teams to win Euro 2024.
Spain’s Rodri was named Player of the Tournament, boosting his own Ballon d’Or chances.
Vinicius also faced failure in the Copa America as Brazil were knocked out in the knockout stage. Messi, on the other hand, will have a strong chance at the Ballon d’Or after Argentina retained the Copa America, adding to their World Cup victory two years ago.
However, Colombia’s James Rodriguez was named the best player of the Copa America, not Messi.
Despite Brazil’s elimination, Aguero did not hesitate to express his admiration for Vinicius Jr, a key player for Brazil and Real Madrid.
Aguero placed Vinicius Jr among the favourites for the Ballon d’Or, highlighting his outstanding season.
As per Sambafoot, Aguero said, “Ballon d’Or? Vinicius Jr had a very good season. I really like Bellingham and Mbappé, but Vinicius Jr has been much better than the others this season.”
Aguero emphasized Vinicius Jr’s need for team support, noting Brazil’s struggles.
He remarked, “Has Vinicius Jr disappeared in the Copa America? That’s not it. It seems to me that Brazil is not in a good moment, and he is a player who needs support. Obviously, you also need a good team. You can make the difference, but let’s not be stupid, you need a team.”
Vinicius Jr has indeed had a remarkable season with Real Madrid, delivering a series of top-level performances and establishing himself as one of the best players in the world.