Gavi has publicly commented on the much-talked-about Ballon d'Or awards, just days after he was taunted by Vinicius Jr during Barcelona's 4-0 win over Real Madrid.
The Spanish midfielder, who finally returned to first-team action this month after almost a year out, came on in the 87th minute of Saturday night's clash against Los Blancos as they led 4-0 through goals from Lamine Yamal, Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski [2].
He replaced Pedri in the dying embers, although it didn't take him long to get involved in a heated clash with Vinicius Junior. In fact, he reminded the Brazilian of the scoreline by flashing four fingers at his face.
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Vinicius soon responded by saying: "Yes, yes, but on Monday I’m going for the Ballon d’Or."
For some time, Vinicius was the long-standing favourite to scoop the individual prize but, to the surprise of many, Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri was crowned the winner after a superb campaign for club and country.
Prior to the ceremony, Real Madrid felt Vinicius was the clear winner and decided to boycott the event when they found out the Brazilian had missed out.
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In fact, after Rodri's winning speech in Paris, Vinicius took to social media to give his take on the unfolding events. He wrote: “Eu farei 10x se for preciso. Eles não estão preparados,” which translates to: “I'll do it 10x if I have to. They're not ready.”
Gavi also took to social media after Monday's ceremony. He congratulated eventual winner Rodri for beating Vinicius to the award by saying: "Congratulations friend. Very well deserved."
Speaking after the event, former Real midfielder Clarence Seedorf shared his own theory on why Vinicius did not win – claiming that it was as a result of a dispute between Real and UEFA.
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"I already voted almost a year ago and I think Vinicius deserved this award," Seedorf told TNT Sports Brasil at the ceremony. "It seems that there is something between Real Madrid and UEFA that seems to be unresolved."
"The problems between Real Madrid and UEFA should be kept outside of these matters. It's a shame."
Vinicius' teammate Jude Bellingham came third in the standings, with fellow Champions League winner Dani Carvajal finishing fourth.
Topics: Gavi, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Vinicius Jr
Jack Kenmare