BALLON D'OR
Rodri on the Ballon d’Or: “people tell me I deserve it”
The Manchester City midfielder has opened up on the battle for the Ballon d’Or.
Rodrigo Hernández is currently one of the biggest names in world football. The exceptional form he has shown with Manchester City and his pivotal role in the Spanish National Team have made him the player of the moment for many. He does not rely on long-range goals or eye-catching moves, but his quiet leadership has propelled him to the top of the Ballon d’Or debate.
Winning the individual award would be a “dream” for both him and Spain, ending the country’s 64-year wait for another Spanish player to claim the trophy, he told ESPN.
At 28, Rodri has been central to Manchester City’s recent success, helping the club secure their fourth consecutive Premier League title last season. He was also named Player of the Tournament at Euro 2024, where he played a key role in Spain’s victory, leading a young squad that included Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams. Despite these achievements, as Rodri himself acknowledged, no Spaniard has won the Ballon d’Or since Luis Suárez in 1960.
Ballon d’Or would be ‘a dream’ says Rodri
“It would be a dream for me,” Rodri shared. “A lot of people ask how I could win it when players like Iniesta and Xavi didn’t. And, in a way, I agree. They defined an era, they were among the greatest players in history, but they competed in a time dominated by Messi and Ronaldo. Still, winning the Ballon d’Or would be an immense source of pride for me and for Spain. Having a Spanish player win the award again would be an incredible recognition for everyone.”
Reflecting on the lack of Spanish winners, Rodri added: “We’ve only had one Ballon d’Or winner, and that was Luis Suárez many years ago. I never saw him play, but it’s surprising that a country with so much football history hasn’t had more winners. There have been many great players over the years, and I think Spain deserves another.”
Rodri also spoke highly of Vinícius Júnior, his main rival for the award: “People say I’ll be competing with Vinícius, and I really admire him. He’s a fantastic player. Just being part of this conversation makes me proud of all the work I’ve put in. Ultimately, it will come down to what people value when voting, but there are many deserving candidates. We’ll see what happens.”
Rodri acknowledged the overwhelming support from fans: “When people stop me in the street and say I should win the Ballon d’Or, I already feel like a winner. For them to believe I can be the best player in the world is incredible. I never dreamed of this, but after years of hard work and confidence, finding myself in this position is surreal.” The midfielder hopes to return to the field this weekend against Brentford, following a much-deserved rest from Pep Guardiola after the Euros. Undefeated in 50 Premier League games, Rodri is determined to help City claim a fifth consecutive title in England.
As for this season’s Premier League competition, Rodri said that Liverpool and Arsenal were the main challengers to City’s title hopes. “I see Liverpool as very strong, and despite my doubts about how they might respond after Klopp’s departure, they remain a threat. Arsenal have also been a serious contender for the past two seasons. Keeping up the same level is tough, but they’ve pushed us to the limit, and I think they’ll be our most competitive rivals this season,” the Madrid-born midfielder concluded.