Rodri has been named the winner of the 2024 Ballon d’Or award, becoming the first defensive midfielder to pick up the trophy.
The Manchester City star lifted the club’s fourth successive Premier League title in May, continuing his impeccable form after a career-best 2022/23 campaign. His efforts were rewarded at both club and country level as the midfielder enjoyed a successful summer at Euro 2024 with Spain, convincingly winning the continental trophy after beating England in the final.
He was among the favourites to lift the Ballon d’Or, but seemed less likely to pick up the trophy than Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior – who won both La Liga and the Champions League with the Spanish giants.
Rodri won Euro 2024 with Spain in the summer / Lars Baron/GettyImages
However, Rodri’s constant impressive performances for Manchester City allowed him to overcome rivals such as Jude Bellingham, Dani Carvajal and Kylian Mbappe to be crowned the best player in world football.
He has joined a star-studded line up of players that have been given the award that includes the likes of Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric and Kaka after becoming the first Spanish player to lift the trophy since Luis Suarez in 1960.
Rodri made 50 appearances for City last season, registering nine goals and 14 assists during their outstanding campaign. Goal contributions aside, Rodri is celebrated for his excellent defensive work, producing magic for his side in vital moments. He also did not lose a single game for his club until the FA Cup final clash with Manchester United.
His Ballon d’Or triumph marks the first time that he, and any other defensive midfielder, have scooped the award.
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