Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has weighed in on the 2024 Ballon d’Or race, highlighting Manchester City star Rodri as one of the top players in the world.
Despite Rodri’s exceptional year, Ferdinand believes the Spanish midfielder may not claim the prestigious award without one critical change.
Speaking to Eurosport, Ferdinand suggested that Rodri’s role on the pitch could be what’s holding him back from securing football’s top individual honor.
“I just think he needs to put a number ten on his back and he might win it,” Ferdinand said. “That’s the only thing – he’s arguably the most complete footballer on the planet.”
Rodri, who has been instrumental in Manchester City’s success, made the 30-man shortlist for the 2024 Ballon d’Or after helping his team clinch the Premier League and lifting the Euro 2024 trophy.
Ferdinand went on to praise the midfielder’s consistency and all-around game.
“He’s the most consistent, arguably. I would have him as that. If he wins it, there’ll be no arguments. Every area of his game is an eight or nine out of ten at the moment, and it’s been like that for maybe three years.”
Despite Rodri’s impressive form, Ferdinand’s comments reflect the difficulty defensive or deep-lying midfielders face in winning the Ballon d’Or, which often favors attacking players.
