Neymar makes huge Rodrygo claim after Ballon d'Or snub complaints

Neymar has offered his support to Brazil teammate Rodrygo after the Real Madrid winger was omitted from the Ballon d'Or shortlist.

A shortlist of 30 players was revealed on Wednesday and Rodrygo was nowhere to be found, sparking some confusion from the 23-year-old.

In response to his snub, Rodrygo took to social media to post several images of his successful season, including goal celebrations and photos with the Champions League, La Liga and Spanish Super Cup trophies alongside two emojis shrugging and laughing.

Neymar also laughed off Rodrygo's snub, posting his own message of support to his international teammate.

"At least top five in the world," Neymar wrote.

Madrid stars feature heavily on the final shortlist. Vinicius Junior is among the favourites to win, while Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, Dani Carvajal and Antonio Rudiger all make the cut.

They are joined by new signing Kylian Mbappe and former midfielder Toni Kroos, who announced his retirement in the summer after his Madrid contract came to an end.

Mbappe's arrival in the summer led to suggestions that Rodrygo could be sold - Manchester City and Liverpool were often touted as suitors in speculative reports - but the Brazil winger stood his ground and remains a regular starter and has racked up one goal and one assist so far this season.

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