Pep Guardiola offers input on “brutal” Rodri’s Ballon d’Or chances after Spain success at Euro 2024 | OneFootball

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has offered his own take on the chances Rodrigo has of becoming the next recipient of the Ballon d’Or award.

The 28-year-old defensive midfielder has sparked hot debate throughout the football community over his credentials at becoming the next recipient of the illustrious Ballon d’Or award following performances for both club and country.

At Manchester City, Rodri played a vital role in Pep Guardiola’s side claiming a record-breaking fourth successive Premier League title, as well as winning a UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup in light of their historic Treble success in the previous season.

As for Spain, the midfielder claimed UEFA’s Player of the Tournament prize at the European Championships via his integral role in the nation’s European Championships success and faultless showing in Germany coupled with wins over the hosts, France, and England.

Speaking during recent media duties whilst away on a pre-season of the United States with Manchester City this week, Pep Guardiola has labelled Rodri has “brutal” when discussing the Spaniard’s chances of claiming the Ballon d’Or later this year.

“His consistency is brutal,” Guardiola said. “I cannot deny how happy I would be if he could get it [the Ballon d’Or].”

The Manchester City boss continued, “But being in the race, being nominated, or winning the Ballon d’Or is fantastic; for him, of course, for his family and friends, but also for Manchester City, the whole organisation.”

Rodri is yet to have a clear return date to action for Manchester City, however the club are likely to hold such discussions amongst themselves and with the player in the coming days following his prolonged 2023/24 season.

The Spaniard is currently on holiday in Costa Rica enjoying the wildlife on offer with his partner, photographed recently on a tour of alligators, crocodiles, and sloths in a rainforest environment.

Rodri will be joined by John Stones, Kyle Walker, and Phil Foden in enjoying an extended summer break, whilst Julian Alvarez continues his international duties following Copa America by competing for Olympic Gold in Paris this summer with Argentina.