Manchester City’s dynamic midfielder, Rodri, has secured the prestigious Ballon d’Or after a standout season with both his club and Spain’s national team. Celebrated at a ceremony in Paris, Rodri, 28, became the first Premier League player to win the Ballon d’Or since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008, making him only the second Spanish male player after Luis Suárez in 1960 to receive this honor. Rodri’s performance was nothing short of exceptional, propelling Manchester City to its fourth consecutive Premier League title and earning him Player of the Tournament at Euro 2024, where he played a crucial role in Spain’s victory.
Receiving his award on crutches due to a recent ACL injury, Rodri delivered an emotional speech expressing gratitude and humility. “This is a very special day for me, my family, and my country,” he shared, adding, “I understand that because I have no social media, people don’t know me much. I am just a normal guy.” Rodri’s grounded and straightforward approach, both on and off the pitch, was evident as he emphasized his enjoyment of the sport and his goal to lead with integrity and humility.
Despite his injury potentially sidelining him for the remainder of the season, Rodri’s impact on Manchester City and Spain has been undeniable, with his contributions on the field drawing comparisons to the sport’s greats. Pep Guardiola, his club manager, lauded him as “the best midfielder in the world, by far,” while Spain’s national coach, Luis de la Fuente, referred to him as “the perfect computer” for his strategic and analytical play.
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Real Madrid’s Boycott and Vinicius Jr. Controversy
The night was not without drama. Real Madrid’s star Vinicius Junior, who helped secure a Liga and Champions League double for his club, was widely regarded as a strong contender for the Ballon d’Or. His absence from the top spot sparked controversy as Real Madrid officials, believing Vinicius deserved the award, boycotted the event altogether, with Vinicius choosing not to attend after learning he would not be the winner. The club’s discontent was palpable, as Madrid asserted that Dani Carvajal should have been recognized if not Vinicius, given his pivotal performances.
This move highlighted Real Madrid’s frustration, with club officials stating, “If the award criteria don’t give it to Vinicius, then Carvajal should be seen as a worthy backup.” However, the Ballon d’Or jury, comprising 100 international journalists, ultimately saw Rodri’s holistic influence on both Manchester City and Spain as the deciding factor, shifting the focus from individual brilliance to collective influence.
Aitana Bonmati Shines Again in Women’s Ballon d’Or
Adding to the celebration of Spanish football, Barcelona and Spain’s Aitana Bonmati clinched her second consecutive Women’s Ballon d’Or after leading her club to an unprecedented quadruple of titles. With 19 goals across all competitions, Bonmati played a vital role in Barcelona’s historic season and led Spain to victory in the Nations League, reinforcing her reputation as a powerhouse on the field.
In her acceptance speech, Bonmati acknowledged the role of her teammates in her success, stating, “I always say this is not something that you can do alone; I’m so lucky to be surrounded by wonderful players who help me grow.” Bonmati’s talent and dedication are a testament to her commitment, and her second Ballon d’Or win cements her status as one of the game’s most influential players.
Barcelona and Real Madrid’s Contrasting Paths
While Barcelona celebrated its achievements with Bonmati’s triumph and received the Club of the Year award, Real Madrid’s no-show underscored the tension surrounding Vinicius Jr.’s Ballon d’Or snub. Barcelona’s president, Joan Laporta, expressed gratitude for the club’s recognition, emphasizing their commitment to women’s football and their desire to remain leaders in the sport.
Spain’s Jennifer Hermoso also received the Socrates Award for her humanitarian work, further highlighting the significance of community involvement in football. Hermoso’s contributions off the field have inspired many, adding depth to her impressive career.
A New Era for Football Recognition
Rodri’s win signals a shift in the Ballon d’Or’s priorities, focusing less on individual statistics and more on players who embody a broader impact on the game. Known for his tactical prowess, leadership, and commitment to team cohesion, Rodri’s influence goes beyond scoring goals. His play style has often been described as unflashy yet essential—a “collective decision” by the Ballon d’Or voters to honor an often-overlooked role.
This victory isn’t merely a personal triumph for Rodri; it symbolizes a wider recognition for midfielders who may not always occupy the spotlight but whose contributions shape the success of teams at every level. As Rodri said, “This is a victory for Spanish football,” and with his accomplishments, the value of team-oriented play has taken center stage in world football.
