Former AC Milan midfielder Clarence Seedorf has cited problems between Real Madrid and UEFA as the reason why Vinicius Junior missed out on the 2024 Ballon d'Or award.

Vinicius, 24, lost the coveted prize to Manchester City's Rodrigo Cascante resulting in a boycott of the awards ceremony from the entire Real Madrid contingents.

The outcome of the awards has generated widespread controversy on social media, with many believing the Brazilian deserved the prestigious trophy ahead of the Spaniard.

Speaking at the awards ceremony which was held at the Théâtre du Châtelet, Paris the former Real Madrid midfielder disclosed that Vinicius deserved to win the prestigious award.

“I think problems between Real Madrid and UEFA should be kept separated from an award the player deserves.

“It’s a shame,” Seedorf stated.