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Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has claimed that Spanish midfielder Rodri deserves to win the 2024 Ballon d'Or title. The legendary tactician claimed that the 28-year-old has showcased his consistency for many seasons, and that he would be delighted if the holding midfielder is awarded the golden ball.
Rodri enjoyed a stellar 2023-24 campaign on an individual and team level. He played an instrumental role in helping City win their sixth Premier League title in seven years.
Following that, he became the orchestrator in Spain's midfield at EURO 2024, inspiring his nation to win the competition. For his incredible performances, he was named the Player of the Tournament.
Overall, he made 56 appearances for club and country last season, racking up 10 goals and 14 assists. His monumental campaign put him in the conversation for the Ballon d'Or title, alongside superstars like Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe, and Vinicius Jr.
Speaking to reporters ahead of Manchester City's clash against West Ham, Guardiola said that he would be over the moon if Rodri lifted the Ballon d'Or. He said (via Tribal Football):
"We would be delighted - he deserves it. But maybe another one deserves it too. The people will vote. Rodri has done not just one season, many seasons really good and the previous season was really good with the Premier League and the Euros winning with Spain. But there are other players who had a good season."
The last midfielder to win the Ballon d'Or was Luka Modric (2018), who won the 2017-18 UCL title with Real Madrid and led Croatia to the FIFA World Cup final.
"I would love it" - Pep Guardiola claims that he would be overjoyed if a Manchester City player won the Ballon d'Or
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has claimed that he would be ecstatic if a player from his squad wins the Ballon d'Or.
Superstar Norwegian striker Erling Haaland and Spanish defensive midfielder Rodri are the two Cityzens most likely to be in contention for the title. Guardiola wished for one of them to win the coveted award.
Speaking to reporters ahead of City's game against West Ham United, Guardiola said (via Tribal Football):
"I would love one (City) player to win it because for players it means a lot. I would love it. But I've said many times, just being in contention and being there means the club - individually and collectively - has done a good season. There are a lot of good teams with good players, hopefully it happens but it is not in my hands."
The 2024 Ballon d'Or ceremony is scheduled to take place on October 28 at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, France. For now, Manchester City are gearing up to take on West Ham in their next Premier League fixture on August 31.
