PAINED! Real Madrid’s Rodrygo ‘Upset’ Over Ballon d’Or Shortlist Omission

Rodrygo, a Brazilian, claimed that his versatility could have caused him to be denied a Ballon d’Or nomination because he was not among the 30 short-listed candidates.

The 23-year-old made 51 appearances for the club last season, scoring 17 goals and registering nine assists.

His Madrid teammates Vinicius Jr., Jude Bellingham, Dani Carvajal, Federico Valverde, Antonio Rudiger, and now-retired Toni Kroos were all nominated.

Kylian Mbappe, who arrived in Madrid from Paris St Germain in the close season, was also on the shortlist.

“I was upset, I think I deserved it,” Rodrygo told ESPN. “I don’t want to belittle the players who are there, I think they deserved it also.

“But I think I had a place in the 30. It was a surprise but there is not much I can do as I’m not the one who decides these things.”

Rodrygo plays on the right, but can also play on the left or as a centre forward, and is often used as a second striker by coach Carlo Ancelotti.

“Often, I’m just filling spaces,” Rodrygo added. “Is someone missing there? Put Rodrygo in. Is someone missing on the right? Rodrygo. Is someone missing as No. 9? Rodrygo. It may get in my way a little, but I’m a team player.”

The award winner will be revealed in Paris on October 28.