Two players in white uniforms on the field with their arms outstretched in a stadium full of spectators.
Mbappé and Vinícius Today Against Arsenal | Camara Real Madrid Confidencial
FIRST TEAM

Vinicius and Mbappé Suffer a Setback After the Defeat Against Arsenal, It's Definitive

Both players are practically ruled out for the Ballon d'Or race after being eliminated in the Champions League

by

Alex Moreno

Real Madrid's elimination against Arsenal has left consequences. One of them directly affects Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappé.

Both dreamed of the Ballon d'Or. But after the KO in the Champions League, their chances have plummeted. As of today, neither Vinicius nor Mbappé are in serious contention for the award.

The blow is hard. Especially because both were favorites just a few months ago.

The Club World Cup and the Nations League, Last Hopes

It is not a definitive sentence yet. There is room. This summer, the new Club World Cup will be held. The Nations League is yet to be concluded.

France is in the semifinals. Mbappé can still shine with his national team. A title with the 'bleus' could put him back in the fight.

A player smiles while holding a trophy in a stadium.
Mbappé with the Nations League | @k.mbappe

Vinicius, on the other hand, has it more difficult. Brazil is not going through a good moment. His performances with the 'Canarinha' are not being decisive.

Without a Copa América in 2025, Vini largely depends on the Club World Cup to regain ground.

Other Names Gain Strength in the Race for the Ballon d'Or

The spotlight has shifted. Now the big favorites are others. At Barça, Raphinha, Lamine Yamal, and Pedri are completing a brilliant season. If the blaugrana team wins the Champions League, one of them could take the prize.

Also standing out are Lautaro Martínez, who leads Inter with goals, and Mohamed Salah, key in Slot's Liverpool. Both keep their chances alive in Europe.

Jude Bellingham is also still in the fight. But he needs a great end of the season to return to the forefront.

Soccer players celebrate a goal on the field while other players show discouragement.
Barcelona Celebrate Dani Olmo's Penalty Goal Against Osasuna | Agencia LOF

Mbappé has played 49 matches. He has scored 32 goals and provided 4 assists. Strong numbers, although his influence has decreased in key matches.

Vinicius has played 45 games. He has scored 20 goals and provided 14 assists. Very good records, but not groundbreaking.

Both have had brilliant moments. But the European failure weighs more. The Champions League is always decisive in the race for the Ballon d'Or.

Today, neither Vini nor Mbappé are among the favorites. Everything will depend on what they do in June and July. But the double setback is evident.

➡️ First Team

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