Spain And Manchester City Midfielder Rodri Wins The Men's Ballon D'Or Award

Manchester City’s Rodri Wins First Men’s Ballon d’Or

Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri has secured his first-ever Ballon d’Or, awarded annually to the world’s top footballer. The 28-year-old, who lost only one game last season, received the honor in Paris after playing a pivotal role in Spain’s Euro 2024 victory in July.

Rodri’s achievements with Manchester City include winning the Premier League, UEFA Super Cup, and Club World Cup. He is also the first player in City’s history to earn the Ballon d’Or, beating Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. to the top spot. English midfielder Jude Bellingham finished third, marking the highest ranking for an English player since Frank Lampard’s second-place finish in 2005.

Real Madrid was named Club of the Year, and their manager, Carlo Ancelotti, received the Men’s Coach of the Year award. However, no one from Real Madrid attended the ceremony, reportedly in response to Vinicius not winning the Ballon d’Or.

Rodri, appearing on stage with crutches due to a recent ACL injury, called the award a “victory for Spanish football.” He dedicated it to legendary Spanish midfielders like Andres Iniesta, Xavi Hernandez, and Sergio Busquets. Reflecting on his journey, Rodri remarked, “I’m just a regular guy with values who works hard and has reached the top.”

Rodri’s Ballon d’Or win is a recognition of his contributions to both club and country, following his pivotal role in Spain’s Euro 2024 win and Manchester City’s historic Treble in 2023. He was also named Player of the Tournament at the Euros, despite an injury that sidelined him in the final against England.

Additional Award Highlights:

Gerd Muller Trophy: Shared by Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe for scoring 52 goals each last season.
Kopa Trophy: Barcelona and Spain’s Lamine Yamal won the award for the best player under 21, becoming the youngest Euro winner.
Yashin Trophy: Aston Villa and Argentina’s Emiliano Martinez was named best goalkeeper for the second consecutive year.

Ballon d’Or Top 10: