Manchester City midfielder Rodri is making a compelling case for the Ballon d’Or, following a sensational year where he played pivotal roles in both Manchester City’s Premier League triumph and Spain’s victory at Euro 2024. However, Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. poses a significant challenge, having delivered a remarkable season of his own.
Rodri’s Rise and Ballon d’Or Hopes
Despite the competition, Rodri admits that just being part of the conversation for the Ballon d’Or feels like a victory in itself. “I already feel like a winner because of the love and positivity I’ve received from people,” Rodri shared in an interview with ESPN. His performances for City, which included a fourth-straight Premier League title, combined with his efforts for Spain during their Euro 2024 success, have placed him firmly among the top contenders.
Rodri hasn’t been on the losing side in a full 90-minute match since March 2023, when Spain faced Scotland in a Euro qualifier. This exceptional run has earned him the support of football icons such as Alan Shearer and Gary Lineker. However, Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr. remains the bookmakers’ favorite for the award, having recorded 24 goals and 11 assists across 39 games in 2023/24, propelling Madrid to La Liga and Champions League glory.
“People say I’m competing with Vinicius, who is a player I greatly admire,” Rodri said. “Just being part of this conversation makes me proud of the work I’ve done. It will come down to what people value in their votes, but I’m already incredibly honored by the recognition I’ve received from fans and football experts.”
The Challenge of History
Rodri understands the historical odds stacked against him. No Spanish male player has won the Ballon d’Or since Luis Suarez in 1960, and legendary figures like Andres Iniesta and Xavi were overshadowed by their Barcelona teammate Lionel Messi in 2010. Additionally, a defensive midfielder hasn’t claimed the title since Germany’s Lothar Matthäus in 1990.
Speaking to BBC’s Football Focus, Rodri acknowledged the bias toward attackers in such awards: “Fans love goals and assists, and because of this, the spotlight often falls on strikers and wingers. But those who understand the game know the importance of players who hold the midfield together.”
Rodri pointed out that success in football is collective, but individual recognition often goes to more attacking roles. “If a player makes a team the champion or wins the Treble, maybe they deserve recognition even if they aren’t scoring the goals,” he said. “This is not just about me, but about many players in the past who have been crucial to their teams without the headlines.”
Vinicius Jr. vs Rodri: A Tight Race
With Vinicius Jr.’s stunning contributions to Real Madrid’s La Liga and Champions League campaigns, the battle for the Ballon d’Or could come down to how voters assess each player’s contributions. Rodri’s all-around excellence and ability to dictate games from deep contrasts with Vinicius’ explosive attacking flair.
Regardless of the outcome, Rodri’s humility shines through. “In football, we play to win collectively,” he added. “Individual awards are a consequence of your hard work, but they are not the main goal. Still, to be recognized as one of the best in the world is something I could have never dreamed of.”
As the Ballon d’Or race heats up, both Rodri and Vinicius Jr. represent contrasting yet equally deserving candidates, leaving fans and pundits eagerly awaiting the decision.
