Rodri's dry response to Karim Benzema

Winner of a controversial Ballon d'Or, Rodri had to receive messages from a large number of detractors, including Karim Benzema who quickly went to the front to defend Vinicius, an unfortunate loser: “Vinicius made a lot of effort, when Real Madrid became European champions, he was decisive in every match. So…I don't think there's anyone else who deserves it more than him. He deserved the Ballon d'Or. I'm very sad for Vini because he really deserved to win the Ballon d'Or. I have nothing against Rodri, he's a good player, but I'm on my couch watching TV and Rodri doesn't do anything that makes you go 'wow pfff'. Vini does this more than once. Vini Jr. deserved to win the Ballon d'Or. I spoke with Vini, he is sad. It's normal. I was sad, that's normal. It's a bit complicated because when the whole world sees you win the Ballon d'Or, but on the last day, a few hours before, they tell you that you're not going to win. Vinicius is a good boy, he will work and he will win the Ballon d'Or one day».

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In an interview for the newspaper ASthe Spanish international wanted to respond to the Al Ittihad scorer following the Frenchman's exit. No resentment from the Manchester City midfielder who prefers to remain positive: “No, it's not offensive. It's his opinion, he has the right to think it. I also can't hope to please everyone. I convinced a jury of a hundred voters, and that's not bad. Then I also heard Paul Scholes say the opposite, that he found my game very beautiful and intelligent, and coming from a midfielder like that, that means something to me. And the only thing I know is that Karim Benzema was an incredible Ballon d'Or, and I know it well, because he made us suffer that year“, he replied. The message got through.