Teammate Ilkay Gundogan was quick to congratulate Rodri, sharing his admiration on social media. “From today on he is finally not ‘underrated’ anymore,” Gundogan wrote. “Rodri is the perfect midfielder and there’s no one that plays his position better.” He applauded Rodri’s unmatched defensive skills, noting that his accomplishments reflect a remarkable growth trajectory in recent years.
Rodri claimed the prestigious 2024 Ballon d’Or, marking a historic win for the defensive midfielder. The Spaniard’s standout performances for both club and country—winning the Premier League with Manchester City and the European Championship with Spain—earned him the honor over Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. This recognition highlights the vital role of defensive players, who are rarely awarded in a traditionally forward-focused competition.
Gundogan expressed particular joy in seeing a defensive midfielder recognized, emphasizing that Rodri’s consistency and adaptability set him apart. He pointed out that many top European clubs seek a world-class holding midfielder, yet Rodri’s unique abilities have made him unrivaled.
Rodri’s win is celebrated as a step toward broader appreciation of defensive roles in football, underscoring the skill and influence such players bring to the game.
