KOLKATA:- The stage was set tonight with an immense factor and hopes that the Real Madrid winger Vinicius JR will be crowned as a champion. But the reality was harsh when the news breaks that the Brazilian winger did not go to Paris to attend the Ballon d’or Ceremony. After the incredible season with Real Madrid , the winger was the favourite to get a podium finish but the reality something else, as a defensive midfielder from Spain win the greatest individual award.
Rodri Makes History as 2024 Ballon d’Or Winner
2024 Ballon d'Or ceremony: how the awards are decided 🏆👇#UCL | #ballondor
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) October 28, 2024
In a stunning turn of events, Rodri, Manchester City’s midfield powerhouse, has been crowned the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner. This prestigious honor solidifies Rodri’s status as one of soccer’s elite.
Rodri’s phenomenal season propelled Manchester City to their fourth consecutive Premier League title and UEFA Super Cup victory. His impressive 17-goal tally underscored his versatility and skill.
Key Factors in Rodri’s Win
– Consistency: Rodri’s consistent performances earned him a spot in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year for the second consecutive season.
– Euro 2024 Dominance: Rodri led Spain to Euro 2024 glory, securing the Best Player award despite an injury in the final.
– Manchester City’s Unbeaten Streak: With Rodri on the field, Manchester City remained unbeaten in the Premier League.
A remarkable achievement for a remarkable player.
Rodri, recognised with a Ballon d'Or win 🏆 pic.twitter.com/TslDUgvV6b
— Premier League (@premierleague) October 28, 2024
Rodri’s standout season included a record fourth consecutive English top division title, with Manchester City not losing a Premier League game when he was on the field . His consistent performances earned him a spot in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year for the second consecutive season .
Rodri will miss the remainder of 2024/25 due to an ACL injury suffered against Arsenal in September, so any celebrations of further successes for City will feel a little unfulfilling.
The stats from this Manchester City’s man was inevitable. He plays 63 games for his club and country lost only one game with an great winning percentage.
In 2023-24: 12 goals, 15 assists. Won Euro 2024, Premier League, Club World Cup & UEFA Super Cup.
In the EPL 2023-24 season he got 8 goals and 9 assists and also got 3 G/A in the UCL and also the winner of EURO 2024.
Number one.#ballondor pic.twitter.com/kB3uDyC6sG
— Manchester City (@ManCity) October 28, 2024
Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham and Dani Carvajal, along with coach Carlo Ancelotti and president Florentino Perez, are reportedly skipping the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris . This decision likely stems from speculation that Rodri will receive the award instead of Vinicius Junior .
🚨⚪️ Confirmed: no one from Real Madrid attend to Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris.
No Ancelotti, no Bellingham, no Florentino Pérez… to support Vinicius Jr. pic.twitter.com/qj7rUij17U
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 28, 2024
In 2023-24: Vinicius JR scored 26 goals and got 12 assists, Won Champions League, La Liga & Supercopa de Espana. But he didn’t get the podium finish ahead of Rodri instead he got the 2nd place. But the social media got tangled with a storm of Madrid supports who were criticizing the France Football Authority.
Rodri becomes the first Premier League player to win the Ballon d’Or since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008. Spain’s national team manager, Luis de la Fuente, hailed Rodri’s victory as “magnificent” for Spanish soccer.
This achievement cements Rodri’s position alongside soccer’s greatest. His dedication, skill and leadership have inspired fans worldwide.