At least top 5 in the world! Crack! – Neymar speaks out to defend Rodrygo Goes as Real Madrid and Brazil star not nominated for Ballon d’Or😭😭

Neymar expressed, on his social networks, his support for Real Madrid and Brazil striker Rodrygo, who was not nominated for the Ballon d’Or, this Wednesday (4).

Neymar discorda de Bola de Ouro por não indicar Rodrygo; veja | CNN Brasil

In an Instagram story, Neymar posted a photo of Rodrygo with the caption “At least top 5 in the world! Crack.”

The traditional awards ceremony, organized by the magazine “France Football” in collaboration with UEFA, has announced the list of 30 players who have been shortlisted for the title of the best player of last season.

Madrid Xtra trên X: "🗣 Neymar Jr on Brazil's key player: “I think Rodrygo  is. Vini will certainly do what he knows but Rodrygo, I think he is very  different. He is

The only Brazilian nominated is Vinicius Jr., also from Real Madrid, who is considered one of the favorites. In women’s football, Brazil has three other nominations.

Rodrygo inherits Neymar’s number 10

Despite being one of the main characters in the Spanish team’s season, which ended with the Champions League and LALIGA, Rodrygo was forgotten by the voters – Real Madrid had 6 nominations out of 30.

SportsCenter on X: "Rodrygo, de pedirle una foto a Neymar a brillar con la  camiseta del Real Madrid. https://t.co/7wFGMfrDEh" / X

Neymar and Rodrygo have many converging stories. Both were revealed by Santos and played together for the Seleção on several occasions, including at the recent World Cup.

Rodrygo even inherited the legendary number 10 shirt of the Brazilian team since Neymar was injured late last year.