Dida, a Brazilian football icon, has declared Vinicius Junior deserved to win this year's Ballon d'Or.

Dida, speaking with Stats Perform, lauded his colleague as "a top player".

Vinicius was unable to lead Brazil to victory in this year's Copa America, missing their quarterfinal match against Uruguay due to suspension.

However, he shone as Real Madrid won the La Liga and Champions League crowns.

Vinicius has personally contributed to 42 goals for Madrid in all competitions since the start of the 2023-24 season, scoring 28 and providing 14 assists.

Dida stated, "Vinicius is a fantastic child, a great player, and a top performer. He performed admirably last season, scoring goals and providing assists.

"He deserves to win it because he did very well, we hope he manages to win this Ballon d’Or.”