The football world was taken aback when Manchester City's midfielder Rodri clinched the prestigious 2024 Ballon d'Or, sparking a heated debate among players, pundits, and fans alike. At the forefront of this controversy was Real Madrid star forward Kylian Mbappe, who openly questioned the decision and expressed his surprise at the outcome.
Mbappe, known for his candid opinions, didn't mince words when discussing Rodri's unexpected triumph. In an interview, the French sensation pondered,
"What is a Ballon d'Or player? Rodri, is he a Ballon d'Or player for you? For me, at first, he wasn't one". This statement underscores the prevailing sentiment among many in the football community who were caught off guard by the Spanish midfielder's victory.
The 2024 Ballon d'Or ceremony, held at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, saw Rodri narrowly edge out Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior by a mere 41 points, with the final tally standing at 1,170 to 1,129. This razor-thin margin has only fueled the controversy surrounding the award's outcome.
Mbappe's skepticism extends beyond mere surprise; he had firmly believed that his Real Madrid teammate, Vinicius Junior, was the more deserving candidate. The French forward remarked that if someone had suggested Rodri as the potential winner just three months prior, it would have seemed absurd. This sentiment was echoed by Real Madrid's decision to boycott the ceremony, a move supported by their manager Carlo Ancelotti, further highlighting the division within the football community.
The controversy has reignited discussions about the criteria for the Ballon d'Or and the unpredictability of its outcomes. Mbappe's comments suggest a broader implication for future awards, hinting that the Ballon d'Or could potentially be awarded to any player, regardless of position.
He mused, "Today, we don't know who the Ballon d'Or is going to, except that no one should be excluded, that all players can be rewarded, maybe even a goalkeeper."
As the debate rages on, Rodri's victory continues to be a topic of intense discussion in the football world. The controversy surrounding his win has not only questioned the criteria for the award but has also highlighted the subjective nature of individual accolades in a team sport. As the dust settles, it remains to be seen how this decision will impact future Ballon d'Or selections and the broader landscape of football recognition.