Spain’s Rodri became the first Manchester City footballer to win the Ballon d’Or on Monday, October 28.
In a glitzy ceremony in Paris, Rodri beat Real Madrid duo of Vinicius Jr. and Jude Bellingham to clinch his maiden award. The Premier League and Euro 2024 champion became the first mid-fielder since Luka Modric to win the Ballon d’Or title.
Rodri, had a phenomenal 2023/24 season that cemented his status as one of the world’s top midfielders and potentially paved the way for him to win the prestigious Ballon d’Or. At Manchester City, Rodri was a pivotal figure in the team’s dominant campaign. He played a crucial role in City’s record-breaking fourth consecutive Premier League title. Rodri’s statistical output was impressive; he scored 8 goals and provided 9 assists in the Premier League.
His ability to influence games with both goals and assists was a hallmark of his season. Notably, he scored a trademark strike from outside the box in City’s 3-1 win over West Ham on the final day of the Premier League season, highlighting his clutch performances.
In addition to his attacking contributions, Rodri’s defensive and midfield work was exemplary. He completed 85.63 passes per match, with a high accuracy rate, and made significant defensive contributions, including 333 tackles and 150 interceptions.
Rodri’s success was not limited to his club performances; he was also instrumental in Spain’s triumph at Euro 2024. He played in all 11 competitive matches for Spain during the tournament and was a key figure in their unbeaten run leading up to the final. Despite suffering an injury that forced him to leave the game at halftime in the final against England, Rodri’s overall impact on the tournament was significant. He scored a crucial equalizer against Georgia in the Round of 16, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure.
Trophies and Honors
The 2023/24 season was filled with trophies for Rodri. He won the Premier League title with Manchester City, marking his fourth consecutive league title. Additionally, he lifted the UEFA Super Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup with City. The only blemish on his otherwise flawless season was the FA Cup final loss to Manchester United, which ended an astonishing run of 74 matches without being on the losing side for Rodri across club and country.
Ballon d’Or Contention
Rodri’s consistent and outstanding performances throughout the season had made him a strong contender for the 2024 Ballon d’Or. His influence on both Manchester City and the Spanish national team was undeniable. City manager Pep Guardiola has praised Rodri’s contributions, highlighting that he has had multiple excellent seasons and not just one standout year. Guardiola expressed his hope that a City player would win the award, acknowledging the significance it holds for the players and the club.
Given his impressive statistics, clutch performances, and the array of trophies won, Rodri was awarded the Ballon d’Or. Rodri’s 2023/24 season was nothing short of exceptional. His performances in the Premier League and at Euro 2024, coupled with the numerous trophies he won, have solidified his status as one of the world’s best midfielders.