Pep Guardiola believes Rodri is a contender for the Ballon d’Or and said Manchester City are ‘proud’ of the midfielder’s achievements.
Rodri has placed himself in contention for football’s greatest individual award after winning the Player of the Tournament accolade at this summer’s European Championship.
The midfielder was an influential part of Spain’s success at Euro 2024, having helped Manchester City to a record-breaking fourth Premier League title in a row in 2023-24.
Guardiola believes his compatriot deserves to be in the frame for the Ballon d’Or, as the 28-year-old looks to become the first Premier League player since Manchester United’s Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008 to win the award.
“When I saw Spain I saw him and he was the level he has been playing for many years. His consistency was good. Rodri, Aymeric Laporte, Ferran [Torres]… they were together and I am happy for them,” Guardiola said at a press conference ahead of Manchester City’s friendly with Celtic on Tuesday.
“There are a few candidates for the Ballon d’Or. [From] Real Madrid, Manchester City… I can’t deny how happy he would be.
“To be in the race is fantastic for him, his family, friends and of course Manchester City. We are so proud.”
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