Neymar picks Real Madrid star as 'deserving' Ballon d'Or winner

Neymar believes Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior is the most deserving candidate to win this year's Ballon d'Or award after successful campaigns in both La Liga and the Champions League.

Football's most coveted award, the Ballon d'Or, will be handed to another winner worthy of being crowned the best male player in the world over the past season. While Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have dominated for 15 years, October's award is set to make it's way into another star's hands.

Madrid playmakers Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior and Manchester City midfielder Rodri are among the favourites to claim the trophy, but Brazil legend Neymar has made up his mind as to who should be celebrated this year.

"Of course I will be supporting him [Vinicius] to win the Ballon d'Or this year," he told Brand Sports. "For me there is no other better candidate to win. He's a guy who deserves it, because he's a fighter.

"He has suffered a lot throughout his life, but he has exceeded all expectations and criticism. He has become an idol for all of us."

Vinicius made 39 appearances for Madrid acorss all competitions last season, registering 24 goals to cement himself as the club's top scorer. He did falter on the international stage, however, with Brazil losing in the quarter-finals of Copa America to Uruguay on penalties.

Nevertheless, his impact for Madrid both domestically and in Europe has thrown him into chief contention for the Ballon d'Or, which is set to be revealed in a ceremony on 28 October in Paris.