Vinicius Junior's secret weapon: Training with Ronaldo to chase Ballon d'Or dreams

Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior has taken his pursuit of the Ballon d'Or to the next level by training at the home of Brazilian legend Ronaldo Nazario.

The young winger is determined to elevate his game and secure football's most prestigious individual award.

Vinicius, who had an outstanding season with Real Madrid last year, revealed that he spent time with Ronaldo at his house in Ibiza, where the two worked together to sharpen his skills.

Vinicius was in blistering form, scoring 24 goals and providing 11 assists in 39 games, helping Real Madrid to win La Liga and the Champions League. However, the competition for the Ballon d'Or is fierce, with his teammate Jude Bellingham and Spain's Rodri also in the running.

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Vinicius focused on Ballon d'Or glory

In a conversation with CNN, Vinicius shared how Ronaldo encouraged him during their training sessions.

"I was with Ronaldo just now when I was in Ibiza and trained at his house and he told me: ‘Train here a few more days, so you are closer to the Ballon d’Or.’ They are players who did incredible things, and to be able to compete for the Ballon d’Or and to win an award that they won, that would be something really incredible,” said Vinicius.

The Brazilian star also spoke about the inspiration he draws from other Brazilian Ballon d'Or winners like Kaká, Ronaldinho, and Rivaldo.

"But without a doubt, Ronaldo and Ronaldinho are the ones I’m closest with, who tell me every day that I have to win the Ballon d’Or,” Vinicius added.

Vinicius will look to continue his impressive form when Real Madrid faces Las Palmas on Thursday, as he aims to open his La Liga goal account for the 2024-25 season and strengthen his case for the Ballon d'Or.