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2 weeks ago
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After the non-awarding of the Ballon d’Or to Vinicius Jr, several statistical comparisons are very bad regarding the Brazilian.
It’s a well-known fact that we make the numbers say what we want. And what is certain is that statistics, in a debate, do not often succeed in getting everyone to agree. The proof with the controversies which followed the awarding of the Ballon d’Or to Rodri to the detriment of Vinicius Jr.
The Brazilian’s supporters highlight his statistics from last season: 26 goals and 12 assists in all competitions. Great performances, of course, but clearly not those of a player who would have flown through the season. The proof: these figures (which are not enough to summarize the quality of Vinicius’ season, let’s be clear) are comparable to those of Florian Thauvin during his best season with OM.
Vinicius is less strong than Salah
Obviously, the comparison is quite humiliating for Vinicius Jr. Here is another, not very flattering: the Brazilian’s “Ballon d’Or” season is barely better from an accounting point of view… than Mohamed Salah’s less good season at Liverpool.
Since 2017-2018, seven seasons in a row, the Egyptian has compiled at least 36 goals and assists. His “worst” season was the 2019-2020 financial year, the one where Liverpool finished as champions of England. The Ballon d’Or was not awarded in 2020, and Salah, after the Reds’ success in the Champions League in 2019, finished 5th in the Ballon d’Or (his best ranking).
Last season, Salah compiled 25 goals and 13 assists. That’s as many goal contributions as Vinicius in 2023-2024 and, yet, the Liverpool striker wasn’t even among the 30 finalists for the Ballon d’Or. The Pharaoh was undoubtedly not helped by the performance of his team, which was satisfied with a victory in the League Cup. But, individually, he had still responded.
Written by:
Manu Tournoux is a passionate and knowledgeable football enthusiast with a special focus on French football. Born and raised in France, Manu discovered his love for the beautiful game at a young age and developed a deep understanding of the ins and outs of "Le Championnat." His French roots and extensive experience in football journalism have made him an invaluable asset to the French Football Weekly team.
 
 As an author for the website, Manu's expertise includes not only in-depth analysis of Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 matches but also insightful profiles of up-and-coming talents, detailed transfer news, and engaging coverage of the French national team. His captivating writing style and undeniable passion for the game have earned him a loyal following among our readers.
 
 When he's not crafting engaging articles for French Football Weekly, Manu enjoys attending live matches whenever he can, exploring football culture in various French cities, and engaging in spirited debates with fellow fans. Feel free to follow Manu on Twitter and interact with him as he shares his expert opinions, insights, and love for French football.
