Raphinha

Rooney: ‘Ballon d’Or Rankings A Joke, Raphinha Deserved’

September 25, 2025 9:05 am

Wayne Rooney has delivered a stinging verdict on the latest Ballon d’Or results, branding the rankings a “joke” and insisting that Raphinha should have been crowned the winner. The former Manchester United and England captain was left baffled by the voting, particularly with Vitinha finishing third and Raphinha only fifth.

Speaking candidly, Rooney said: “It’s a joke, really. How come Raphinha finished fifth and Vitinha third? He led his team in key moments, played with passion and heart, and gave us some magical nights. If that doesn’t deserve the Ballon d’Or, what does? For me, he should have been number …

Neymar Slams Raphinha’s Ballon D’Or Placement As “Big Joke”

September 23, 2025 8:26 am

Brazilian superstar Neymar has openly criticized Raphinha’s fifth-place finish in the 2025 Ballon d’Or rankings, calling it “a big joke” in a post on his Instagram account. The comment comes as reactions flood in from fans, pundits, and players alike, many of whom believe the Barcelona forward had a season worthy of a higher standing.

Official results show that Raphinha finished 5th in the 2025 Ballon d’Or, behind Ousmane Dembélé, Lamine Yamal, Vitinha, and Mohamed Salah. Neymar’s outburst reflects a sense of injustice shared by a portion of the football community, who believe Raphinha’s performances—across goals, assists, and decisive contributions—were …