Rodri Wins 2024 Ballon D'Or Ahead Of Vinicius Jnr

Rodri has beaten Real Madrid pair Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham to the most prestigious individual honour in world football.

The 28-year-old is currently sidelined for the rest of the 2024/2025 season after rupturing his ACL against Arsenal last month.

Rodri helped Manchester City win the Premier League, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup in the year under review and also played a key role as Spain won the 2024 European Championships.

He was named player of the tournament as Spain won the EUROS for a fourth time.

Rodri is the first player to win the Ballon D'or while playing in England since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008.

Speaking in Spanish, Rodri said: "I have so many things to thank people for. First of all to France Football and to UEFA for giving me this award. I would like to thank those who voted for me and put their trust in me. Today is a very special day for me and for my family, my country.

"I would like to thank the most important person in the world for me, my girlfriend Laura. Today is our anniversary and without her things wouldn't have been the same. Thank you.

"Also my family, of course. The values they have taught me and all they represent in me, for having taught me the right steps to take and for helping me become the man I am.

"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.

"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."