As the 2025/26 Premier League season approaches, all eyes will be on Manchester City’s midfield maestro Rodri, who returns to action after a lengthy spell on the sidelines. The Spanish international is back from his ACL injury and ready to make up for lost time, with the added confidence that comes from being crowned the world’s best player just months ago.
Rodri’s Ballon d’Or triumph in 2024 sent shockwaves through the football odds, with many pundits and fans having grown accustomed to seeing attacking players dominate the prestigious award.
The Spanish midfielder’s victory was considered something of an upset when assessing LiveScore Bet, where his odds had been significantly longer than the favoured Vinicius Junior. However, his recognition highlighted how crucial defensive midfielders have become in modern football, with elite performances in this position now capable of swaying the most coveted individual honour in the sport.
Rodri earned the 2024 Ballon d’Or by playing an integral role for club and country during the 2023/24 season, demonstrating the kind of consistency that separates good players from great ones. His performances were instrumental in helping Manchester City secure a record fourth successive English Premier League title, providing the platform for Pep Guardiola’s attacking players to flourish.
However, it was his international exploits that truly influenced voters. Rodri was named UEFA EURO 2024 Player of the Tournament after a series of commanding displays that guided Spain to triumph in Germany. His ability to dictate tempo, break up opposition attacks, and launch counter-attacks proved decisive in Spain’s march to glory.
The midfielder’s tournament performances showcased his evolution into a complete player, capable of influencing matches through his defensive work, distribution, and increasingly, his ability to contribute in the final third when required.
The Ballon d’Or celebrations were overshadowed by Real Madrid’s decision to boycott the ceremony, with many believing Vini. Jr deserved the award. The Brazilian winger had enjoyed an outstanding season, contributing crucial goals in Madrid’s Champions League triumph and demonstrating match-winning ability in the biggest moments, but has struggled in the year since.
To make matters worse, his season was cruelly cut short by an ACL injury sustained during City’s clash with Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium. The incident occurred during a heated encounter against one of their main title rivals, with the Spanish midfielder going down in what initially appeared to be a routine challenge.
The injury proved to be a turning point not just for Rodri personally, but for City’s entire campaign. His absence exposed the lack of adequate cover for such a crucial position, with the champions struggling to maintain their defensive solidity without their midfield anchor. The timing couldn’t have been worse, occurring during a period when City needed their most influential players fit and available.
That lengthy absence means he faces an uphill battle to retain the Ballon d’Or in 2025, with competitors like Ousmane Dembélé, Lamine Yamal, and Mohamed Salah all enjoying outstanding campaigns. His lack of playing time during the crucial months of last season will inevitably count against him in future voting.
However, his immediate focus will be on re-establishing himself as City’s midfield anchor and adapting to significant changes in the squad. The departure of Kevin De Bruyne marks the end of an era, with Rodri now expected to assume greater leadership responsibilities.
The arrivals of Rayan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders provide Guardiola with fresh options in midfield, but the number six role as the team’s defensive foundation remains unchanged. His ability to knit together these new partnerships will be crucial to City’s hopes of maintaining their domestic dominance.
Despite the challenges ahead, Rodri’s hunger for further success remains undiminished. At 28, he enters his prime years with the confidence that comes from reaching football’s summit, and his sights are set on adding to his trophy collection whilst potentially challenging for another Ballon d’Or in the future.
The 2026 World Cup represents perhaps his greatest opportunity to cement his legacy on the international stage. Leading Spain’s new generation whilst drawing on his Ballon d’Or-winning experience could provide the platform for another golden period for La Roja.
For now, though, Rodri’s immediate priority is proving that his individual recognition translates into collective success for City, as he looks to demonstrate that the world’s best player can still make the difference when it matters most.
