Current Ballon d'Or holder Rodri has revealed the four players he thinks have a chance of dethroning him at this year’s ceremony. The Spanish midfielder became only the second player from his country to win the famous golden ball off the back of his role in La Roja's European Championship victory.
However, the Manchester City star sustained an ACL injury early in the 2024/25 season, which ruled him out for the remainder of the campaign. As a result, Rodri has no chance of retaining his title after he was excluded from the 30-player shortlist. And with the winner being announced later this month, the reigning champion has named the four stars he is backing to take the crown.
Rodri Names Ballon d'Or Favourites
As per TNT Sports, Rodri admitted that there were two of his compatriots he would prefer to see take home the trophy, but conceded that two PSG may be more deserving based on merit.
"I have preferences for my teammates, but the truth is PSG have been the team of the season, and it would be hard not to give it to one of their players. Out of sympathy, I’d love for it to go to Lamine [Yamal] or Pedri, but based on sporting merit, maybe it’s between Ousmane or Vitinha."
Dembele is the current favourite to win the award despite never being nominated for it before. However, his 51 goal contributions in 53 games en route to PSG's treble last season have put him in a prime position. Vitinha, meanwhile, may not have been as statistically impressive but was vital to the Parisians' success last time out, and also has a UEFA Nations League triumph with Portugal under his belt to aid his chances.
Failure to win the Champions League may stunt Yamal's and Pedri's chances of becoming the third Spaniard to receive the honour, despite Barcelona's domestic dominance last term.
In the same interview, Rodri also stated that winning the Ballon d'Or didn't do anything for him as a result of the injury he sustained prior to receiving the award in controversial circumstances amid Vinicius Junior's public frustration.
"The injury is much more significant than the Ballon d'Or," the 29-year-old explained. "It was a breath of fresh air at a time when I was having a really hard time.
"I'm happy for the recognition, but it's of no use to me. I still want to be the same player. Above all, when you go through this process on a mental level, I want to return to my level, I want to enjoy football again. That's my only goal."