Man City midfielder Rodri becomes first Premier League player since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008 to be crowned Ballon d’Or winner; Barcelona star Aitana Bonmati won the women’s award for second year running; Former Chelsea Women boss Emma Hayes named women’s coach of the year.
The Manchester City and Spain midfielder, Rodri, on Monday, clinched the 2024 Ballon d’Or, beating Brazil’s Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham to the awards.
The 28-year-old defensive powerhouse had a year filled with extraordinary achievements, winning the Euro 2024 with Spain, the Premier League, Club World Cup, and UEFA Super Cup with Manchester City, scoring 12 goals, 15 assists.
His choice though drew controversy as a section of football fraternity believes Vinicius deserves the gong more.
Lamine Yamal was named the world’s best young player of the year as he won the 2024 Kopa Trophy due to his excellent displays for Barcelona and Spain.
