Still in crutches and out for the rest of the season, Spain and Manchester City midfielder, Rodri said his winning the 2024 Ballon d’Or Award was made at the Etihad Stadium.
Rodri beat Real Madrid trio of Vinicius Junior, Dani Carvajal and Jude Bellingham to clinch the award Monday night.
“I don’t want to forget my team-mates, I understand it is a group game. Manchester City is so special, I know I wouldn’t make this without you. For me it is the best club in the world, and thanks to them things happen much easier,” Rodri said.
He also had praise for the La Rojas with whom he won the 2024 Euro Championship.
“The national team and Luis (de la Fuente, coach), for trusting me for so long, I have to mention my team-mates with whom we won the Euros. This is not just for me but for Spanish football.”
The women’s award went to Aitana Bonmati won the women’s award for a second year running. She beat her Barcelona teammates Caroline Graham Hansen and Salma Paralluelo to the title.
The full list of awards.
Kopa Trophy: Lamine Yamal
Women’s Club of the Year: FC Barcelona
Men’s Club of the Year: Real Madrid
The Gerd Muller Trophy: Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe (52 goals each)
Yashin Trophy: Emiliano Martinez
Socrates Award: Jenni Hermoso
Johan Cruyff Trophy: Emma Hayes and Carlo Ancelotti
Ballon d’Or Feminin: Aitana Bonmati
Ballon d’Or: Rodri
