Vinicius Jr Faces Real Betis Mockery After Ballon d’Or Setback

Vinicius Jr’s Ballon d’Or journey has taken an unexpected turn, as the Brazilian winger was subjected to online mockery by Real Betis after finishing 16th in the 2025 Ballon d’Or rankings. The Real Madrid star, who once boldly declared he would “win the Ballon d’Or ten times if needed,” has had those words thrown back at him, intensifying the scrutiny on his recent performances.

Vinicius Jr and the Ballon d’Or Disappointment

Vinicius Jr entered the 2024-25 season with high expectations, following a remarkable campaign with Real Madrid. Many fans and pundits believed he would be in serious contention for the prestigious Ballon d’Or. However, the final rankings left supporters stunned, with Vinicius landing in 16th place—a result that fell well short of both personal and public hopes.

The disappointment was compounded when Real Betis, always ready to stoke the competitive fires in La Liga, used social media to troll Vinicius Jr. Betis’ official channels reposted the Brazilian’s previous promise to win the Ballon d’Or “ten times if needed,” but added a sarcastic twist: “One down, nine to go!” This playful jibe quickly gained traction online, sparking debate among fans over Vinicius’s current form and status among football’s elite.

Real Betis’ Social Media Response Adds Pressure

The rivalry between Real Madrid and Real Betis has always been intense, but Betis’ latest move elevated the banter to a new level. Their mocking response not only highlighted Vinicius Jr’s unexpected Ballon d’Or ranking but also reminded followers of the high standards he set for himself.

For Vinicius, this is more than just football banter. The 16th-place finish means he must now face criticism not only from rival supporters but also from his own fanbase, who expected more from a player often hailed as one of the world’s brightest talents. This public pressure could impact his confidence, especially with important fixtures coming up in La Liga and the Champions League.

Xabi Alonso’s Tactical Shifts and Vinicius Jr’s Role

Adding to Vinicius Jr’s challenges is the strategic shift under manager Xabi Alonso. The Real Madrid coach has recently experimented with altering Vinicius’s position and responsibilities on the pitch, sometimes limiting his influence in key matches. While rotation and tactical flexibility are vital for elite clubs, these changes have raised questions about whether Vinicius is being positioned to maximize his strengths.

Alonso’s adjustments have led to fewer scoring opportunities and a drop in direct goal contributions from the winger, further fueling the debate around his Ballon d’Or snub. If Vinicius is to reclaim his status among the game’s very best, he will need to adapt quickly to his evolving role and rediscover the form that made him a global star.

Vocal Pledge Returns to Haunt Vinicius Jr

Vinicius Jr’s ambitious declaration to win the Ballon d’Or multiple times was meant to demonstrate his hunger and self-belief. However, after the latest rankings, his words have become a focal point for critics and rivals alike. The youthful confidence that once energized the Real Madrid dressing room has been weaponized as a source of mockery, especially by clubs like Real Betis eager to gain a psychological edge.

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Outlook for Vinicius Jr and Real Madrid

Despite the current backlash and playful trolling from Real Betis, Vinicius Jr remains a key figure in Real Madrid’s future. His pace, dribbling, and creative flair continue to pose a threat to any defense, and he has the potential to turn adversity into motivation. The coming weeks will be crucial as Vinicius looks to silence his critics, reclaim his top form, and prove he belongs among the world’s footballing elites.

Opinion: Time for Vinicius Jr to Respond

It’s clear that Vinicius Jr is navigating a challenging period in his burgeoning career. While the Ballon d’Or result and Betis’ trolling sting, they also provide an opportunity for growth. The true test for Vinicius will be how he responds on the pitch—will he let the criticism define him, or use it as fuel for an inspired comeback? The football world will be watching closely.