Rodri, the standout midfielder for Manchester City and Spain, has been enjoying an extraordinary run of form, sparking talks about his potential to win the prestigious Ballon d’Or. In a candid interview with ESPN’s Mark Ogden, the Spanish maestro reflected on the possibility of being named the best player in the world, while also touching on the legacy of football legends.
“It’d Be a Dream for Me”
Rodri revealed that winning the Ballon d’Or would be a dream fulfilled. He spoke of the pride it would bring not only to him but also to his country:
*“It would be a source of pride for me and my country to win it,”* Rodri said. Although he has never specifically dreamt about winning the Ballon d’Or, the recognition he gets from fans on the street, telling him he deserves it, has made him feel like a winner already.
Xavi and Iniesta Comparisons
Rodri also addressed comparisons to Spanish legends Xavi and Iniesta, two players widely regarded as some of the best in football history. Despite their brilliance, neither won the Ballon d’Or, largely due to playing in an era dominated by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
“There are a lot of people who say: If Rodri is going to win it, how did Iniesta or Xavi not win it?” he noted, adding, “In part, I agree. They were players who marked an era.” Still, Rodri remains focused on his journey, understanding that each player’s career unfolds in its own time.
Humble Yet Confident
Despite the growing buzz around him, Rodri remains grounded. He acknowledges that being mentioned in the same conversation as the world’s best players is already a win in itself.
“People believe I can be the best player in the world, and telling me these things is incredible… I’ve never dreamt about this, to be honest,” he humbly shared.
Rodri’s humility and excellence continue to shine, and while the Ballon d’Or remains an ambitious goal, the support and belief from fans make him feel like a winner in his own right. Whether he clinches the trophy or not, Rodri’s legacy in football is already being cemented. As he puts it, the recognition he’s receiving is proof of his success, regardless of the final outcome.
Summary
– Rodri dreams of winning the Ballon d’Or.
– He addresses comparisons to Xavi and Iniesta.
– Humble yet confident, Rodri values the recognition of fans.