Rodri Speaks Out: Ballon d'Or Win, Injury Recovery, and Football Insights

“Nobody told me that I was gonna win the Ballon d'Or. You go there and until the envelope is opened...” 

Manchester City's Rodri shares thoughts on his Ballon d'Or win, recovery from injury, and football's top players, including Erling Haaland and Vinicius Jr. Plus, his take on Pep Guardiola's future.

In a recent interview with Cope, Manchester City's Rodri opened up about his remarkable Ballon d'Or win, his ongoing recovery from injury, and shared insightful thoughts on the world of football.

Returning This Season

Rodri expressed optimism about returning to the pitch this season, saying, “I feel I can return already this season, yes. It's possible and I can make it happen.” He emphasized the importance of recovering without pressure, stating, “I'm recovering now, no pressure... it's important to recover in the best way.” With the season far from over and the new Clubs' World Cup on the horizon, Rodri believes he can make a successful comeback.

Ballon d'Or Reflections

Rodri reflected on his surprising Ballon d'Or win, admitting, “Nobody told me that I was gonna win the Ballon d'Or. You go there and until the envelope is opened.” When asked about Real Madrid's absence from the ceremony, Rodri shrugged it off, saying, “Well, if Real Madrid team doesn't come, it must be for a reason, but... I wasn't hurt that Vinicius wasn't there. Why would I be hurt?”

Praise for Teammates and Rivals

Rodri had kind words for his peers, stating, “I'd vote Dani Carvajal 2nd at the Ballon d'Or... and Vinicius Jr as 3rd.” He also praised Álvaro Morata, recalling, “Álvaro Morata always told me: You're stupid. If you had social media, you would have a Ballon d'Or.” Rodri jokingly responded to Morata after his win, saying, “Look, Ballon d'Or in my hands and no social media!”

Erling Haaland's Dominance

Rodri identified Erling Haaland as the most decisive player in the world, noting, “He's the only player who could come close to Leo Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. He is also very young and will be there for many years.” Haaland's impressive numbers and consistency make him a force to be reckoned with.

Consistency Key to Ballon d'Or

Rodri attributed his Ballon d'Or win to his consistency, saying, “I think I won the Ballon d'Or because I've been consistent. It's the most difficult skill in football. I think I've been the most regular player in the world this year, yes.”

Pep Guardiola's Future

Regarding Pep Guardiola's future at Manchester City, Rodri remained uncertain, stating, “When I signed for Man City, people told me: Pep will leave next year. And he's been here for 5 years.... We will see! He's ambitious, it's him deciding his future. But in any case, Man City will still be Man City.”

Rodri's candid interview offers a glimpse into the mind of a top footballer, sharing his thoughts on the beautiful game, his achievements, and the stars of the sport.