Last night was a historical night for Manchester City as Rodri became the first Manchester player to win the prestigious award. City’s midfield general beat Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham to claim the Ballon d’Or. Rodri’s win capped off a successful 2024 for the midfielder. Rodri was a key part of both Manchester City’s and Spain’s success over the past 12 months.
Rodri being crowned the winner of the Ballon d’Or shows just how important City’s midfield general is to both Manchester City and Spain. Throughout last season for City, he was an integral player in Pep Guardiola’s side’s success. Rodri was at the heart of City’s success and his play in midfield was crucial to Manchester City claiming a fourth successive Premier League title. He also played a crucial role in City’s capture of the FIFA Club World Cup and European Super Cup last season. Rodri has long been the heartbeat of Manchester City’s midfield and claiming the Balloon d’Or cements his status as the best midfielder in the world game.
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Rodri’s strong for City carried into the European Championships last summer. Rodri was named the player of the tournament as Spain beat England to take out the European Championships. Rodri’s form was vital to Spain’s success. Without him, it is doubtful that Spain would’ve claimed the title.
To create history last night Rodri’s form for both club and country had to be recognised. The case for Rodri to win the Ballon d’Or was overwhelming and that’s how the evening panned out. For Manchester City Erling Haaland finished 5th in the voting. Phil Foden was 11th and Ruben Dias was 23rd.
It was a historical night for Manchester City and Rodri rightfully takes his place at the top of the mountain in world football. It is a position Rodri has earned through his exceptional form on the pitch and he doesn’t chase headlines off it. City’s midfield general just goes about his work with minimal fuss and he now sits atop of the game after claiming the Ballon d’Or. In an era where social media and where players have become brands off the pitch Rodri’s win is one for the player who just goes about his work on the pitch. That does feel like it should be celebrated especially in the modern environment.
Rodri created history for Manchester City last night when he claimed the Ballon d’Or. Last night is a night that will be go down in City history as Rodri became the first player to win the award while playing for the club.
