Manchester Metropolis midfielder Rodri happy with Ballon d’Or recognition


Rodri is delighted to have been nominated for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, notably as he believes defensive midfielders are sometimes ignored for particular person accolades.

The previous Atletico Madrid man has had one other excellent yr for each membership and nation, profitable the Premier League with Manchester Metropolis and the European Championship with Spain.

His constant performances imply he’s among the many favourites to land the award subsequent month having been listed among the many 30 nominees.

Rodri stated: “I’m very completely satisfied for every little thing that occurred to me during the last yr, profitable what we have now received [with City] and final summer season on the Euros with my nation, it’s only a dream.

“It’s the implications of working onerous, the consistency and by no means giving up. Particular person awards are only a consequence of the work and I actually really feel proper now as if persons are actually recognising my work and making an attempt to push me to win [the Ballon d’Or].

“To be trustworthy, although, it’s not one thing I take into consideration. It could be a dream, in fact, as I by no means thought that I may arrive to this second however, alternatively, when you arrive right here you simply need to let folks say what they assume and that’s it.”

Messi and Ronaldo feats imply midfielders have been ignored

Though the outstanding longevity of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo skews the numbers, just one midfielder – Luka Modric in 2018 – has received the award within the final 16 years.

“Sure, I do know I play a unique position than most gamers who’re nominated for these trophies,” Rodri added, “but it surely additionally exhibits that soccer might be stunning in numerous views. 

“You might be stunning taking part in as a midfielder, scoring targets or as a defender.

“Everyone knows how soccer works, however I feel there are many individuals who actually admire the position of a midfielder, so let’s see what occurs.”

Reviews this morning urged Metropolis had been trying to provide Rodri a brand new contract however the participant was not keen on discussing the problem.

He stated: “I’ve nothing a lot to say. I’ve three extra years at Metropolis. Once I signal the contracts I don’t consider different groups, I simply consider ending. So sure, I’ve a contract with Metropolis and there’s nothing else I can say.”





Supply hyperlink