Recently crowned 2024 Ballon d’Or winner Rodri has downplayed the absence of Vinicius and Real Madrid at the award ceremony in October.
The Manchester City midfielder expressed no animosity toward the Spanish giants, stating that his focus was on celebrating the moment with his family.
Rodri secured the prestigious award with 41 points more than Vinicius in the voting by a panel of 100 international journalists. Jude Bellingham and Dani Carvajal of Real Madrid finished third and fourth, respectively.
When asked about Vinicius’s absence, Rodri replied, “Why would it hurt me? It was my moment to enjoy with my family. The last thing I’d be thinking about is people who weren’t there and didn’t want to participate.”
The Spanish international emphasized his respect for Vinicius and Real Madrid, adding, “I love that people vote what they feel. It’s someone’s opinion; I respect Vinícius hugely, and Real Madrid, and anyone who knows me knows it.”
Rodri even jokingly suggested that he would vote for Carvajal and Vinicius himself.
Rodri is currently sidelined with a knee injury that ruled him out of the season against Arsenal in September.
His priority is recovery rather than speculation about his future. “Renewing my contract isn’t my priority now. I want to recover, and we’ll see,” he stated.
The midfielder has expressed his satisfaction with life at Manchester City despite rumours that he might return to Spain to play for Real Madrid.
“I like to live in the present; I’m very happy there; it’s been my home since I arrived in England.”
Rodri emphasized that he did not want to “close any doors” but feels comfortable at City.
Rodri made history by becoming the first defensive midfielder to win the Ballon d’Or.
His impressive performances for Manchester City and Spain earned him the recognition.
He played a pivotal role in City’s title-winning team last season and led Spain to the European Championship trophy.
The Manchester City midfielder boasts an impressive record, having last lost a Premier League game in February 2023.
His 74-game unbeaten streak for club and country came to an end in the FA Cup final against Manchester United in May.
Fans eagerly anticipate Rodri’s return to action in August 2025.
Rodri’s humility and graciousness in victory have earned him admiration from fans and peers alike.
As he focuses on recovery and his future, one thing is certain – Rodri’s legacy as a world-class midfielder is already cemented.
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