Manchester City player Rodri emerges as the surprise winner of the men’s Ballon d’Or award, making history as the first from the club to earn the title. The ceremony was marred by Real Madrid’s absence, reportedly due to their belief that their player Vinícius Júnior would not win. Rodri, who arrived on crutches following an ACL injury, was a deserving recipient, having won the Euros and scored vital goals for City.
In the women’s category, Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmatí retains her Ballon d’Or, marking her second consecutive win. Real Madrid’s boycott extended to the men’s club of the year award as well, leaving Leverkusen, Dortmund, Girona, and Manchester City as contenders. Barcelona claimed the women’s club of the year accolade after a successful season.
The top five in the men’s ranking included Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, Dani Carvajal, and Erling Haaland, with Rodri securing the top spot. On the women’s side, Caroline Graham Hansen, Salma Paralluelo, and Sophia Smith rounded out the top four.
The event also recognized young talent, with Lamine Yamal becoming the first player under 18 to win the Kopa Trophy. Emiliano Martínez secured the Yashin Trophy for best goalkeeper. Real Madrid’s absence overshadowed what should have been a celebration of football’s finest players and clubs. Despite the controversy, the evening ultimately belonged to Rodri and Barcelona, who emerged as the stars of the prestigious awards ceremony.
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