AFCON 2025
Manchester City’s Rodri made history as the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, becoming the first Premier League player to claim the honor in 16 years.
Despite suffering an ACL injury against Arsenal in September, Rodri had an incredible 2023-24 season, securing his fourth consecutive Premier League title with Manchester City and leading Spain to Euro 2024 victory.
He also earned the tournament’s Best Player award, winning the accolade despite exiting the final against England at halftime.
Initially, Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr was favourite to win, but reports broke on Monday morning, suggesting that the 24-year-old had been snubbed.
Real Madrid’s entourage skipped the Paris ceremony at Théâtre du Chatelet, with the likes of Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe, and Carlo Ancelotti declining their invitations.
Ultimately, Rodri’s outstanding performances earned him the prestigious Ballon d’Or; the first Manchester City player in history to win.
