WHAT HAPPENED?
The defensive midfielder won the Euro 2024 Player of the Year award, capping up yet another fantastic season in both club and international football. He was instrumental in Spain’s victory in the continental tournament. The Spaniard has already won four trophies, including the Premier League championship with the Cityzens and the Euro 2024 triumph with La Roja. Former Tottenham Hotspur defender Jan Vertonghen has predicted the Spaniard to win the Ballon d’Or this year. Following Spain’s decisive victory, the Belgian tweeted on X, “Rodri ballon d’or confirmed.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Another Spanish talent, Barcelona’s young sensation Lamine Yamal, was also honored for his outstanding performance during the competition. The 17-year-old was a constant for Luis de la Fuente’s team and helped break the tie in the championship game with an assist.
DID YOU KNOW?
Rodri was named the 2022–23 Champions League Player of the Season after Pep Guardiola’s team defeated Inter in the championship game to win the trophy for the first time ever in the club’s history thanks to his lone goal. He was just as important to City the previous season, and he is a strong favorite to win the Ballon d’Or this year despite competition from players like Lionel Messi, Vinicius Junior, and Jude Bellingham.
WHAT NEXT?
The two Spaniards are anticipated to have a well-earned vacation before reporting to their own teams for preseason training. Later this month, City and Barcelona are both expected to visit the United States for friendlies.
