Rodri has etched his name in history, winning the 2024 Ballon d’Or over Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior. In an unexpected turn, the Manchester City midfielder became the first defensive player since Fabio Cannavaro (2006) to secure the prestigious award.
The victory came at the Ballon d’Or ceremony held in Paris, cementing Rodri’s status as one of football’s most influential figures. His win challenges the traditional dominance of forwards and highlights the value of defensive midfielders on the world stage.
A Historic Feat for Defensive Players
Rodri’s triumph at the Ballon d’Or ceremony ends a long-standing bias favouring attacking players. Before him, only four non-attacking players—Cannavaro, Matthias Sammer (1996), Franz Beckenbauer, and Lev Yashin—had won the award since its inception in 1956.
His success is remarkable, given the recent injury that sidelined him for the remainder of the season. This injury followed an extraordinary run of 52 Premier League matches without defeat, a streak that underscored his influence.
Rodri’s Path to Ballon d’Or Glory
Rodri’s career has soared since joining Manchester City from Atlético Madrid in 2019. His defining moment came in 2023 when he scored the winning goal in City’s Champions League final against Inter Milan, helping the club secure a historic treble.
In 2024, Rodri’s pivotal role in Spain’s Euro 2024 victory earned him the Player of the Tournament award. His leadership on the pitch embodies what Pep Guardiola describes as “the best midfielder in the world right now.”
Vinícius Júnior’s Absence Raises Questions
Vinícius Júnior, widely expected to win this year’s Ballon d’Or, did not attend the ceremony after learning of the outcome. His recent performances, including a Champions League hat trick against Borussia Dortmund, had made him a strong contender.
While Rodri excelled in a deeper role, Vinícius displayed creativity and goal-scoring prowess, making it a tight race. However, Rodri’s ability to influence games and deliver in key moments ultimately tipped the balance in his favour.
Recognition from Football’s Best
Several top players and managers have praised Rodri’s consistency and leadership. Guardiola believes his midfield maestro “can do everything,” while Luis de la Fuente, Spain’s national coach, calls Rodri “the world’s best in his position.”
Rodri also credits Diego Simeone for shaping his defensive skills during his time at Atlético Madrid. He acknowledged that Simeone’s guidance added toughness to his game, preparing him for the physical demands of the Premier League.
A Turning Point for Midfielders
Rodri hopes his Ballon d’Or win opens doors for more defensive players. “I hope that in the next ten years, people value what we do on the pitch,” he told ESPN. His win is a reminder that football is not only about goals but also about control, strategy, and leadership.
Conclusion
Rodri’s 2024 Ballon d’Or win is a testament to his hard work, adaptability, and leadership on the field. In a world where forwards often steal the limelight, Rodri has proven that the “ultimate team player” can indeed be recognised. His triumph not only honours his achievements but also redefines how football values different roles.
With this victory, Rodri has changed the narrative, making it clear that midfield excellence deserves the same recognition as goal-scoring brilliance.