Real Madrid boss Ancelotti reveals what Vinicius Jr must do for his first Ballon d’Or win

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti says star forward Vinicius Jr is in the conversation for the likely contenders of the Ballon d’Or.

Vinicius has delivered one excellent performance after another for Real Madrid this season, with Los Blancos already crowned La Liga winners and are in line to claim their 15th Champions League trophy.

The Brazilian attacker netted 13 goals and assisted six others in helping Real Madrid dethrone Barcelona and secure a record-extending 36th league honour.

The 23-year-old also dazzled with five goals and provided as many assists in the Champions League this season to help Madrid book a place in the final, where they will face Borussia Dortmund.

These displays have elevated Vinicius among the elite players on the planet. And with Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi no longer in their prime, Vinicius will likely lock horns with Man City’s Erling Haaland and Real Madrid-bound Kylian Mbappe for this year’s Ballon d’Or award.

For Vinicius to win the prestigious individual honour, Ancelotti has outlined the need to win the Champions League and impress in Copa America with Brazil.

“He’s (Vinicius is) doing a great job,” Ancelotti told reporters on the eve of Saturday’s league trip to relegation-threatened Granada, as per BBC.

“He’s still got the Champions League final to come and then he’ll be at the Copa America. He’s very close, and if he has positive results in both competitions, he could well win it (Ballon d’Or).

“Before I came to coach Madrid, I saw Vinicius on TV and I thought what an incredibly talented player he looked. When I arrived here, that much was clear, and he’s improved on many things to enhance that talent.

“He’s better at evading his markers now and has improved in front of goal as well. He’s done so with a spectacular work ethic on a daily basis; he’s focused in training and recovers well after matches.

“He’s a highly disciplined professional, and he deserves everything he’s achieved.”

“He’s among the best in the world, and this is Vinicius’ moment because he brings us so much. He’s been important in us making the Champions League final and winning La Liga.”

Vinicius joined Real Madrid from Brazil’s Flamengo in 2018 for €45 million.