Following rodrygo

UEFA Champions League: Following Rodrygo's comments in which he admitted that he was 'upset' over not being in the 30-man shortlist for the 2024 Ballon d’Or trophy, Real Madrid head coach Ancelotti has stated that he understands the Brazilian's 'sadness.'

"For sure Rodrygo should have been among the nominees for the Ballon d’Or, no doubts. I understand his sadness, he’s right. For me he’s an important player and there are zero problems," said Carlo Ancelotti in a pre-match press conference.

Five players for Los Blancos were included in the shortlist, in the likes of Vinicius Jr, Jude Bellingham, Toni Kroos (now retired), Federico Valverde and Dani Carvajal. But the Brazilian, who scored 17 goals and provided nine assists, was not included.