Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has seemingly confirmed that Vinícius Júnior will claim this year’s Ballon d'Or, ending speculation over the prestigious award.

Last week, the Spanish publication As hinted that Real Madrid’s forward would take home the honor as the best individual player.

“We can say that Vini will be the next Ballon d'Or winner. There was no doubt about it. There was no other true contender,” Ancelotti stated.

Vinícius will become the ninth Real Madrid player to earn this accolade, following in the footsteps of Alfredo Di Stéfano, Raymond Kopa, Luís Figo, Ronaldo, Fabio Cannavaro, Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modrić, and Karim Benzema.