Manchester City’s Rodri edges out Real Madrid rivals Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham to become Spain’s first Ballon d’Or winner this century.

Manchester City’s midfield powerhouse, Rodri, has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Ballon d’Or, with his club manager Pep Guardiola hailing it as a well-deserved recognition of Spanish football’s influence. The 27-year-old Spaniard outshone fierce competitors including Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham, who finished in second and third place respectively. Rodri’s decisive performances for City, leading them to the Premier League title, and his pivotal role in Spain’s Euro 2024 victory, where he was named player of the tournament, cemented his place as one of the world’s elite.

Real Madrid’s absence from the awards ceremony in Paris sparked discussions, reportedly stemming from their disappointment that Vinicius, a favourite for the accolade, missed out. Guardiola, unperturbed by Madrid’s reaction, remarked, “If they [Real Madrid] want to go, it’s fine. If they don’t, it’s fine as well. If they want to congratulate you, it’s fine. If not, that’s also fine.” Guardiola’s comments highlighted his indifference to the ongoing rivalry, particularly given his own Barcelona roots.

The Ballon d’Or, awarded by a global panel of journalists, has often sparked debates and divisive opinions. Guardiola acknowledged this, noting, “It’s voted by journalists from all around the world, not just one country. That’s what makes football interesting – there are different perspectives.” The win makes Rodri the first Manchester City player to claim the Ballon d’Or and the first Premier League player to lift the trophy since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008. This victory is historic for Spain, marking the first Ballon d’Or won by a Spanish male player since the turn of the century.

Reflecting on Spanish football’s past successes, Guardiola suggested the win serves as overdue recognition for Spain’s impact on the sport. “Rodri perfectly represents City, but also Spanish football,” he said. “Spain’s influence in world football has been massive, not only in terms of winning titles but also in shaping how the game is played.” He further reflected on the past achievements of Spanish greats Xavi and Andres Iniesta, who came close to the title but ultimately lost out to Lionel Messi in their time. “Maybe in that moment, Xavi and Iniesta deserved it as well,” Guardiola mused. “I think maybe Rodri gets what Spanish football deserves.”

The reaction to Vinicius Jr’s snub has been particularly intense in Brazil, with media and fans lamenting what they see as a missed opportunity for the young forward. In Spain, however, the mood is celebratory, with Rodri’s award seen as a continuation of a legacy established by players who have defined the style and spirit of Spanish football over recent decades. The win underscores a shift from the long-standing Ballon d’Or dominance of Ronaldo and Messi, who shared the trophy 14 times in the last 16 years.

Rodri’s impressive season has underscored his reputation as one of football’s most complete midfielders. His role in City’s domestic and international success, coupled with his leadership in Spain’s Euro campaign, has drawn admiration from players, managers, and fans alike. His calm, consistent style on the pitch has earned comparisons with Spain’s iconic midfield duo of the past, with some seeing him as the natural successor to Xavi and Iniesta’s legacy.

The night was also historic for Spanish football on another front, as Spain’s Aitana Bonmatí won the women’s Ballon d’Or, cementing Spain’s impact on the world football stage. Bonmatí’s recognition caps a significant year for the country, with both men’s and women’s players achieving top honours.

As Rodri looks ahead to another season with City, his Ballon d’Or win adds new weight to his profile, highlighting the remarkable evolution of a player who has become indispensable to both club and country. With Guardiola’s support and the recognition of football fans globally, Rodri’s win stands as both a personal milestone and a nod to the ongoing impact of Spanish football on the global stage.