Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti believes Vinicius Junior deserves to win the Ballon d’Or this season if not for the brilliant Karim Benzema.

The 22 year old Brazilian forward scored 22 goals and provided 20 assists in 52 appearances across competitions for Real Madrid last season.

Ancelotti said: “He scored the winning goal in our 14th Champions League; he had an incredible season.

“He doesn’t care if he finishes fourth or second. For the players, only victory matters. He will do better in the future. But unfortunately for Vini, this season, we already have the winner with us (hinting at Benzema).”

Benzema is the favourite to win the Ballon d’Or award this year, having scored 44 goals and provided 15 assists in 46 games across competitions last season.