Our Spanish star this evening became the first Manchester City player to ever take home world football’s most prestigious individual honour.
He collected the trophy at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris with Vinicius Junior second and Jude Bellingham third on the night.
It’s just reward for his colossal, courageous and classy performances in the middle of the park for Pep Guardiola’s History Makers as he marshalled the Blues to a record breaking fourth successive English top-flight title in 2023/24.
His impact on our team, as well as his role as the driving force behind Spain’s Euro 2024 success, was recognised as a panel of journalists from the 100 top-ranking nations chose our midfielder as the world’s best player over the last 12 months.
And the 28-year-old couldn’t have been prouder of what he has achieved.
“Winning the Ballon d’Or is the realisation of a dream and a genuine honour for me,” Rodrigo said.
“I have given so much to football, and to be rewarded this evening with the most revered individual prize in the game is something incredibly special for me and my family.
“However, individual prizes are so often the result of strong team performances, and I am eternally grateful to everyone at Manchester City.
“My teammates are the best – I could not ask for more from them, both personally and professionally – and the support I receive from across every department at the football club means I am given the opportunity to focus on my football and preform at my very best. I am very fortunate to be able call myself a Manchester City player.
“I also want to thank my family for their constant love and support. My career would not have been possible without them.
“I am humbled, honoured and very proud tonight. My focus now is returning to full fitness and pulling on a City shirt again.”
