Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri has achieved a major milestone by winning the 2024 Ballon d’Or, thereby becoming the first defensive player to receive this honour since Fabio Cannavaro in 2024 Ballon d’Or. This achievement is particularly great since he edged out Real Madrid’s Vinìcius Junior, overcoming obstacles such as a recent injury that will keep him sidelined for the rest of the season.
Rodri Bags 2024 Ballon dOr
Rodrio Hernàndez Cascante, better known as Rodri, was born on the 22nd of June, 1996 in Madrid, Spain. He started his youth football journey at Rayo Majadahonda before joining Atlético Madrid’s academy, where he honed his abilities. Rodri’s professional debut came with Villarreal, and after a successful period there, he returned to Atlético Madrid. In 2019, he moved to Manchester City for a then record fee, where he has become a core part of the team.
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Career Highlights
While at Manchester City, he has secured four consecutive Premier League titles (2020-2024), won the UEFA Champions League(2023), along with several domestic trophies.
At the international level, he played a pivotal role in Spain’s victory at Euro 2024, where he was named the player of the tournament.
He has been named the UEFA Champions League Player of the Season for 2022-2023. Just yesterday, the 28th of October, 2024, he was awarded the 2024 Ballon d’Or.
Rodri Football Highlights
Rodri is widely recognised for his exceptional defensive capabilities, precise passing, and skill in dictating the game’s tempo. His career Highlights includes:
- Scoring the decisive goal in the 2023 UEFA Champions League final against Inter Milan thereby sealing Manchester City’s first champions League title.
- Dominating Spain’s midfield during their successful Euro 2024 campaign, where he showed both his leadership and tactical intelligence.
Conclusion
Rodri’s growth as a player has been guided by renowned coaches like Diego Simeone and Pep Guardiola, who have helped him to master his skills and rise to the demands of elite level football.