Manchester City midfielder Rodri has shared his thoughts on who truly deserves the Ballon d’Or award this year, sparking debates among fans and football analysts.
The Spanish international, who won the prestigious trophy last year, believes the 2025 edition should be closely contested between standout performers from Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
Rodri became the first Manchester City player to win the Ballon d’Or in the club’s history, edging out Real Madrid star Vinícius Júnior in the 2024 race.
His triumph also marked the first time in over two decades that a player from the English Premier League lifted the individual honour, cementing his status among football’s elite.
With the new edition around the corner, attention has turned to which superstar will be crowned this year.
For Rodri, the decision is clear: the question of who deserves Ballon d’Or award should fall on Barcelona’s young gems or PSG’s resurgent stars.
Rodri backs Barcelona duo and PSG stars
When asked about his preferred contenders, Rodri highlighted four names who, in his view, deserve the Ballon d’Or award.
He said that Barcelona’s rising teenage sensation Lamine Yamal and midfield maestro Pedri have both been outstanding this season, contributing immensely to the Catalan club’s resurgence in Spain and Europe.
At PSG, Rodri pointed to Ousmane Dembélé and Vitinha as players who have impressed him the most, praising their consistency and big-game performances.
“I’d like to see it go to Lamine or Pedri, but on sporting merit, it’s Dembele or Vitinha,” he said.
The midfielder went further, suggesting that it would be difficult to look past PSG players given the French club’s dominant campaign.
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PSG lifted the Ligue 1 title comfortably, won the Champions League, and played some of the most electrifying football in Europe.
“The Ballon d’Or is difficult. PSG has been the team of the season, and it would be hard not to give it to someone from that team. I’m happy for Luis Enrique,” he added.
The battle between Yamal and Dembele
Rodri’s comments have fuelled fresh debate about the credentials of Yamal and Dembélé in particular.
Yamal, still only a teenager, has dazzled fans with his fearless dribbling, maturity on the ball, and match-winning moments for Barcelona.
His rise has drawn comparisons with Lionel Messi’s early years at the club, making him one of the hottest prospects in world football.
Dembélé, meanwhile, enjoyed one of his best seasons at PSG, putting injuries behind him to deliver decisive goals and assists on the biggest stages.
His combination of pace, flair, and improved end product made him a constant threat throughout the campaign.
Many analysts believe this consistency is what finally makes him a strong contender for the Ballon d’Or award.
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Meanwhile, the inclusion of Vitinha and Pedri in Rodri’s shortlist underlines his belief that the award should reflect not just individual brilliance but also a player’s influence in midfield — something he himself was recognised for last year.
Both players orchestrated play with maturity and vision, driving their teams to crucial victories.
