Manchester City and Spain’s talented midfielder Rodri has clinched the prestigious men’s Ballon d’Or for the first time, awarded to the world’s best footballer. The 28-year-old earned this honor after a remarkable season that included winning the Euro 2024 with Spain and numerous titles with his club. His exceptional achievements led him to become the first Manchester City player in history to receive this award, edging out Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. and England’s Jude Bellingham.
Despite a significant ACL injury in September, Rodri dedicated his win to Spanish football, saying, “This award is not just for me, but for Spanish football and those midfielders who paved the way.” He honored past Spanish greats like Iniesta, Xavi, and Casillas, emphasizing the impact of Spanish midfielders. Rodri accepted the Ballon d’Or from George Weah, a football legend and 1995 Ballon d’Or winner.
Rodri Rewarded for Club and Country Success
The Ballon d’Or is the highest award in world football, chosen by a panel of journalists from the top 100 nations in the FIFA rankings. This year marked the first time since 2003 that neither Lionel Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo were among the nominees, reflecting a shift in football’s elite. Rodri’s outstanding contributions to both Manchester City and Spain’s national team, including his player-of-the-tournament performance at Euro 2024, earned him the honor as one of football’s most influential players.
Last season, Rodri scored a personal-best nine goals, including pivotal late-game goals that helped secure City’s victories in the Premier League and a historic 3-1 title-clinching win against West Ham. Rodri’s humility and dedication to the sport have inspired fans and players alike, with him saying, “Today, many friends told me that football won, giving visibility to the crucial role of midfielders.”
Rodri, while recovering from his injury, expressed a positive outlook: “I’m focusing on my recovery, resting, and spending time with my family to come back even stronger.”
Kane and Mbappe Share Gerd Muller Trophy
Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe were jointly awarded the Gerd Muller Trophy for last season’s best goalscorers, with each scoring 52 goals in all competitions. With Mbappe absent from the ceremony, Kane received the award on behalf of both players. Kane’s stellar first season at Bayern Munich contributed to his recognition, and he thanked his teammates and club for their support.
“It’s an honor to receive this award, especially from a Bayern Munich legend like Karl-Heinz Rummenigge,” Kane expressed. Despite his busy season, Kane finished tenth in the Ballon d’Or rankings, marking his consistency as one of the world’s top players.
Real Madrid Sweep Club and Coach Awards in Absence
Real Madrid claimed the Club of the Year award, and their coach Carlo Ancelotti received the inaugural Johan Cruyff Trophy for best men’s coach. Notably, no representatives from Real Madrid were present to receive the awards, reportedly due to the club’s decision to boycott the ceremony after learning Vinicius Jr. would not win the Ballon d’Or.
Under Ancelotti, Real Madrid won La Liga by a comfortable 10-point margin, also capturing the Spanish Super Cup. Real’s triumphs extended to the Champions League, marking their 15th title and reinforcing the club’s continued dominance on the European stage. Seven of their players were among the nominees for the Ballon d’Or, highlighting their strength across all areas of the field.
Yamal Wins Kopa Trophy as Best Young Player
The Kopa Trophy, awarded to the best player under 21, went to Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal. The 17-year-old starlet contributed seven goals and seven assists across 50 games last season. His contributions extended to Spain’s Euro 2024-winning campaign, where he tallied four assists, setting a record for most assists in a single European Championship.
Yamal’s accolades include becoming the youngest player, goalscorer, and winner in Euro history, solidifying his place as a rising star. His impressive performances earned him the young player of the tournament award, highlighting his potential as one of the game’s future greats.
Martinez Wins Yashin Trophy for Best Goalkeeper
Aston Villa and Argentina’s Emiliano Martinez secured the Yashin Trophy, awarded to the best goalkeeper, for the second consecutive year. Martinez’s heroics helped Aston Villa to a fourth-place finish in the Premier League, qualifying them for the Champions League. The 32-year-old was also instrumental in Argentina’s Copa America victory, recording five clean sheets in six games.
Reflecting on his achievement, Martinez stated, “Winning this once was an honor, but taking it twice in a row is something I never anticipated.” This back-to-back Yashin Trophy win underscores his contributions as a top-tier goalkeeper in both domestic and international competitions.
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