Manchester City midfielder Rodri has made history, becoming the first Premier League player since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008 to win the Ballon d’Or. The 28-year-old Spaniard edged out Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior, Dani Carvajal, and Jude Bellingham, securing the top individual honor in football as voted by a panel of 100 international experts.
Rodri’s 2023-24 season was one for the ages. He led Manchester City to their fourth consecutive Premier League title and was instrumental in Spain’s victorious Euro 2024 campaign in Germany. Despite suffering an ACL injury in September against Arsenal, which sidelined him for the season, his remarkable performances throughout the year earned him widespread acclaim.
During Euro 2024, Rodri was named the tournament’s Best Player. Though he had to leave the final against England at halftime due to injury, his impact was undeniable. He even attended the Ballon d’Or ceremony on crutches, a testament to his dedication and resilience.
Rodri also achieved a rare feat by going 74 games – or 475 days – undefeated for club and country, with the streak ending in the FA Cup final against Manchester United in May. His last Premier League defeat came in February 2023 against Tottenham, underscoring his dominant presence on the field.
In receiving the award, Rodri became the first defensive midfielder to win the Ballon d’Or since the accolade’s inception in 1956. He is also the first Spaniard to claim the honor since Barcelona’s Luis Suárez in 1960.
In his acceptance speech, Rodri expressed gratitude to those who supported him: “I have so many people to thank, from France Football and UEFA to my family and my girlfriend, Laura. Today is special – it’s our anniversary, and her support has been my foundation. This award also belongs to my teammates at Manchester City and the Spanish national team. Together, we’ve created something extraordinary.”
Rodri’s Ballon d’Or win highlights a career defined by skill, resilience, and leadership. His achievement marks a new milestone for Manchester City and Spanish football, celebrating a player who has reshaped the role of a defensive midfielder on the global stage.
