Yep, Rodri got my vote
Yep, Rodri got my vote (Image: PA)
Rodri was the outstanding player for both club and country.
The Spain midfielder was his nation’s best and most important player at last summer’s Euros. And he was sensational for Manchester City when they set a new record in English football by winning four Premier League titles in a row.
That is why he got my vote in the FIFA Best awards - although it was Vinicius Jr who won the prize on Tuesday.
I am so honoured and privileged to be asked to cast my vote. And I take it very seriously as well as giving it a lot of thought. And if ever you needed further proof of Rodri’s importance and value, then just look at what is happening in his absence at Manchester City right now.
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Rodri is a phenomenal player. He makes the whole team work. He is disciplined, super smart and his remarkable unbeaten run of games says it all. Last May, Rodri set a new unbeaten streak in European football history, with 74 games, surpassing Paolo Maldini and Demetrio Albertini's record of 73 games at AC Milan.
Then just look at City’s decline without him… they have managed just one win in their last 11 games. Of course it’s all about Rodri - but it’s a huge factor.
And if we are talking about one player and voting for one player then Rodri also did it for Spain as they were by far and away the best team at last summer’s Euros.
Yes, I do find it odd as someone loves attacking football to be voting for a holding midfielder. But he is just too good not to.
I had England and Real Madrid ace Jude Bellingham in third place
I had England and Real Madrid ace Jude Bellingham in third place
My second place was Vinicius Jr and he was sensational as Real Madrid won the Champions League again and swept all before them. But as much as I love Vini Jr, I do think Rodri was more important to his teams than the Brazilian to Real Madrid’s success. Of course I voted for him as runner-up which underlines how brilliant he is.
But I also find it offensive and disrespectful for anyone to suggest that Rodri beat Vinicius Jr because of anything else than performances on the football pitch. People making those comments probably don’t go to games and appreciate everything that Rodri does.
I went for Jude Bellingham in third. See? Not everyone makes him a scapegoat. In fact, Bellingham was brilliant for Real Madrid and England at the Euros. And if you want to be picky, then Harry Kane took way more stick. And unfairly, in my view.
Finally, I think Pep Guardiola was the standout manager. What a coach. A pure genius. To win four in a row is breathtaking - no wonder they are shattered!
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