At the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony, Manchester City’s outstanding midfielder Rodri shared his heartfelt feelings about his journey in football. He not only expressed his pride in receiving this prestigious award but also emphasized the importance of the role models he had growing up.

Rodri began by talking about the players who inspired him since he was a child. “There were many players who were role models for me when I was young, especially Lionel Messi,” he shared. Messi, with his natural talent and relentless dedication, has become an icon for many generations of young players. Rodri said that watching Messi play helped him realize that perseverance and ambition are essential to achieving success in his career.

What is remarkable about Rodri is that he is not only an excellent player but also a highly educated person. He chose not to participate in social media, a decision that is not common among modern footballers. Rodri believes that staying away from social media helps him focus more on learning and developing himself. He believes that, in addition to football skills, equipping himself with knowledge and understanding is very important. “I want to be a complete player, not only on the pitch but also in life,” Rodri emphasized.

Rodri also shared his efforts to improve his skills. He spent many hours practicing, not only with his teammates but also on himself. He often watches matches, analyzing the playing style of excellent players to draw lessons for himself. “Every match is an opportunity to learn,” he said.

Besides, Rodri also emphasized the importance of support from family and coaches. He said that his family has always been the biggest source of encouragement in his life. They have stood behind him and supported him in every decision, helping him overcome difficulties and challenges. The coaches are also the ones who have guided and guided him on his career path. Rodri thanked them for believing in his abilities and creating conditions for him to develop.

Rodri not only wants to be a good player but also wants to be a role model for the younger generations. He hopes that, through his efforts and successes, he can inspire other young players to pursue their dreams. “I want to show everyone that if you work hard and have passion, you can achieve anything,” he shared.

Finally, Rodri expressed his gratitude for the 2024 Ballon d’Or award. He sees it as a reward not only for himself but also for the entire Manchester City team and those who have supported him throughout his journey. “I will continue to work hard and dedicate myself to football,” he affirmed.

Rodri, with his humility and determination, truly deserves the 2024 Ballon d’Or. He has proven that with passion, effort and the right support, every player can reach the top.