Pep Guardiola on Rodri's Ballon d'Or triumphant, "We're so proud of him"

Manchester City's Rodri is the 2024 winner of the Ballon d'Or, surpassing Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham to claim the award.

Rodri was a key element in Man City winning their historic four-in-a-row Premier League. He was also player of the tournament in the Euros, where his national team, Spain, reigned supreme and became champions.

Since his arrival in 2019, Rodri has certainly proven himself to be one of, if not the most, influential player within the squad; achieving incredible statistics and winning 11 trophies, such as the Champions League, Club World Cup and multiple premier league tiles.

Overall it was a good night for the Cityzens, as they had many players finish in respectable spots; with Erling Haaland in fifth, Phil Foden in 11th and Ruben Dias making it to 23rd.

While new signing Savinho was ranked fourth for the Kopa trophy, coming beneath Kobbie Mainoo of Manchester United in third, Arda Guller from Real Madrid in second and the winner of the trophy, lamine Yamal of Barcelona.

Spaniard midfielder Rodri has become the first player of Man City to win the historic Ballon d'Or, and his city boss Pep Guardiola has shared his delight over the big victory.

Pep Guardiola speaks about Rodri's Ballon d'Or win.

"First of all, of course, congratulations to him. It's incredible news for him and of course, for all of us, all at city and our fans. We're so proud of him."

"We are so delighted to be part of it and share it with him and yes, hopefully, it can give him energy to recover well for next season and be with us again."

"For us, last season (22/23), Erling (Haaland) won the treble, more than 50 goals, and I said to him' Just being there you have to be happy'. I said to Rodri as well ' If you are in the first four it is incredible'. It's a good year so be satisfied."

"Rodrigo knows he needs this club and team-mates to achieve it. We are aware we're not going to play with the best player in the world, of course, his contribution to our success, everyone knows it."

Disappointingly, Rodri's involvement was cut short for the 24/25 season after sustaining a season-ending injury during city's 2-2 draw with Arsenal a while ago.

But, Rodri will take motivation from his new title and will hope to achieve these levels once he returns next season.