Why Rodri Won the Ballon d’Or

Rodri’s win of the Ballon d’Or is a testament to the growing recognition of players whose influence goes beyond flashy goals or assists. As a defensive midfielder, Rodri’s style isn’t about scoring or showboating but about shaping the game from deep and exerting control over every play. This article explores why Rodri earned the Ballon d’Or, the impact he had for both club and country and how his disciplined, intelligent play has set him apart in a field often dominated by forward players.



Rodri has won the 2024 Ballon d’Or award, which might be a surprise to some, though not because there are any doubts about the Manchester City star’s credentials.

It’s just that we so rarely see central midfielders in the running for a prize that has been so dominated by attacking players over the years.

After a year that saw him win another Premier League title with Man City before going on to be a key part of Spain’s successful Euro 2024 campaign, Rodri has earned the accolade after a vote from his peers. He is the first ever City player to win it, and the first player from the Premier League since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008 when he was at Manchester United.

He also became the third Spanish player to win the Ballon d’Or and the first in 64 years, following Alfredo Di Stéfano (1957 and 1959) and Luis Suárez (1960).

Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior had been the bookie's favourite to win after his special year, including scoring in the 2-0 UEFA Champions League final win over Borussia Dortmund. Despite his best efforts, TNT Sports pundit Rio Ferdinand shouting “Ballon d’Or!” over and over at Wembley as the Brazilian scored that goal in May wasn’t enough to secure the award for him.

Key Contributions to Manchester City’s Success

Rodri was a reliable figure for City in 2023-24, starting more matches (50) than any of his teammates, while he also played the most minutes (4,325). At Euro 2024 with Spain, he started six of their seven matches before suffering an injury and being withdrawn at half-time of the final against England.

Of his 50 games last season, City won 38, drew 11 and lost just once, which was the FA Cup final against Manchester United. In the nine games Rodri didn’t feature, City won just five, losing four of them.

In his 50 games in all competitions for Man City, he recorded 22 goal involvements (9 goals, 13 assists). He had never previously registered more than seven goals in a campaign, or more than seven assists.

His goals were often important ones, too, including an 88th-minute winner away to Sheffield United, and a late goal at Chelsea that put City 4-3 up before Cole Palmer’s even later equaliser from the penalty spot. Rodri found the net again against Chelsea to equalise in the 83rd minute in the reverse fixture and hit the last goal to clinch the vital 3-1 win over West Ham to secure the Premier League title.

Dominance on the International Stage

Rodri’s influence extends beyond club football; he was also instrumental for Spain in the 2023 UEFA Nations League. Leading the team’s midfield, he was critical in Spain’s ability to control games and dictate play, ultimately winning the title. His leadership, positioning, and resilience allowed Spain to regain some of its former dominance, and his role in securing the trophy solidified his status as one of the world’s top players.

Setting a New Standard for Defensive Midfielders

Winning the Ballon d’Or as a defensive midfielder is no small feat, especially in an era dominated by goal-scorers like Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland. Rodri’s win marks a shift in the appreciation of different player roles. It underscores the value of players who make an impact by controlling games and orchestrating play, often operating in the background but influencing every outcome.

In a role that requires humility, discipline, and an acute tactical mind, Rodri has become a standard-bearer. His win celebrates a new breed of Ballon d’Or winners—those whose skills and contributions go beyond the limelight to affect every game aspect.

Conclusion

Rodri’s Ballon d’Or win represents a recognition of his contributions to both Manchester City and Spain and his mastery of midfield play. His win is an acknowledgement of the value of players who influence the game without always being in the spotlight, setting a precedent for future defensive midfielders. As football evolves, Rodri’s success is a reminder that the Ballon d’Or isn’t just for the top scorers; it’s for the best players in every role.

It will be a long time before Rodri is back playing, and football fans should all look forward to seeing him return in 2025-26.

For now, the 28-year-old can console himself with the most prestigious individual prize in world football.