Manchester City’s midfielder Rodrigo Hernandez Cascante – Rodri – won the Ballon D’or last night, as the world’s best player. The Spaniard, 28, had an impressive season with Manchester City and Spain, winning a couple of silverwares. Real Madrid boycotted the event, believing their player deserved the award.

Rodri was brilliant in midfield as the Cityzens cruised their way to a fourth consecutive league title. He also inspired his national side to a euro title, winning the player of the tournament award.

Why did Real Madrid Boycott the Ballon d’or Ceremony

The Spanish side boycotted the event in protest against Vinicius not winning the award. Madrid’s forward Vinicius Jr. was the runner up for the Ballon D’or. However, he was not at the event. His teammates and other club officials weren’t either. The Brazilian forward was a frontrunner in the Ballon D’or race until his club learnt he was not going to win it.

Vinicius also had an impressive season with Real Madrid, winning the Spanish League, Super Cup and Uefa Champions League (UCL). He scored 26 goals and registered 11 assists, in addition to winning the UCL player of the tournament.

“I’ll do it 10 times if needed,” Vinicius wrote in Portuguese. “They are not ready.”

“You are the best player in the world. No award can tell me otherwise,” said Eduardo Camavinga, Vinicius’ teammate.

Real Madrid winger, Vinicius Jr.
Photo credits: Vinicius Jr. on Facebook

Rodri Reaction to receiving the Ballon D’or Award

Rodri’s Ballon D’or was presented by George Weah, also a former winner.

The midfielder covered his face as his name was called. Rodri quickly deflected the praises to his teammates.

“I just want to say thank you again to the people who recognise my value in the game,” he said.

“When I was a kid I never thought of winning the Ballon d’Or, but in the last few years I’ve been playing at the highest level.”

The all-round midfielder has been a pro in the City’s midfield, helping with attacking and defensive duties. He had 24 goal contributions last year, scoring 10 goals and registering 14 assists.

Rodri is the first player in the English league to win the Ballon D’or since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008.

Manchester City Midfielder, Rodri
Photo credits: Fabrizio Romano on Facebook

Other Winners in the Men’s Category

Absent Real Madrid was voted the team of the year.

It was once again a proud moment for Spain and Barcelona as 17-year-old winger Lamine Yamal won the Kopa Trophy.

For the second consecutive time, Argentina and Aston Villa keeper Emiliano Martinez won the Lev Yashin award for the best goalkeeper.

Carlo Ancelotti was the best men’s coach while Bayern Munich forward Harry Kane and Real Madrid winger Kylian Mbappe shared the Gerd Mueller award for the most goals for club and country, 52.