Football

Rodri's triumph at the Ballon d'Or 2024 has sent shockwaves through the football world, marking a significant victory for the often-underrated defensive midfielder. Despite the dominance of attackers and defenders in the spotlight, Rodri's consistent brilliance for both Manchester City and Spain has earned him the coveted award.In his acceptance speech, Rodri paid tribute to his teammates, particularly Dani Carvajal and Lamine Yamal, who played pivotal roles in Spain's Euro 2024 triumph. He also acknowledged the contributions of his girlfriend Laura, his family, and his agent Paulo.Rodri's journey to the top has been marked by resilience and determination. He recalled a time when he almost quit football as a teenager, but his father's unwavering support kept him going. This experience has shaped his character and instilled in him the values of hard work and perseverance.Rodri's victory is not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the importance of defensive midfielders in modern football. His ability to control the tempo of the game, break up opposition attacks, and initiate attacks has made him an indispensable asset for both club and country.The Ballon d'Or 2024 results have sparked a debate about the criteria for selecting the best player of the year. Some argue that attackers should always be favored due to their goal-scoring prowess, while others believe that defensive players deserve equal recognition for their contributions to team success.Rodri's triumph has reignited this discussion, highlighting the need for a more balanced approach to player evaluation. His victory is a reminder that football is a team sport, and that every position on the field plays a vital role in achieving success.

Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior is poised to make a strong case for the Ballon d'Or award in October, but his immediate focus is on leading his team to victory in the Champions League. The Brazilian forward has stepped up in the absence of injured star Kylian Mbappe, becoming Madrid's primary attacking threat.After a slow start to last season, Vinicius exploded in the second half, playing a pivotal role in Madrid's record-extending 15th European Cup triumph. Despite initial teething issues with Mbappe, the duo seemed to be developing a strong partnership before the Frenchman's injury.Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has backed Vinicius to win the Ballon d'Or, citing his impressive performances in the Champions League last season. However, Ancelotti emphasized that the team will continue to perform regardless of the outcome.Mbappe's arrival at Madrid raised questions about how he and Vinicius would coexist, given their similar playing styles. Ancelotti has kept Vinicius in his preferred left-wing position, with Mbappe often playing centrally.Despite criticism for his performances with Brazil, Vinicius has responded with strong displays for Madrid. He has scored two goals in his last three appearances, including a crucial equalizer against Espanyol.Vinicius' contract with Madrid expires in 2027, but reports suggest he may consider his options next summer. For now, his focus is on helping Madrid succeed in Europe and domestically.With Mbappe likely to miss the Champions League clash against Lille, Vinicius will be expected to lead the attack once again. The Brazilian has shown signs of improvement in recent weeks and will be eager to prove his worth on the biggest stage.

Aitana Bonmati, the reigning Ballon d'Or and FIFA Player of the Year, is a force to be reckoned with in the world of women's football. Her exceptional skills and unwavering ambition have earned her comparisons to legendary players like Xavi and Andres Iniesta.Bonmati's 2023 has been a year of triumph, with individual accolades and team victories. She attributes her success to the winning mentality and improved physicality of the Spanish national team. However, her hunger for more is insatiable."I want to be a better Aitana every year," she declares. Her sights are set on Olympic gold in 2024 and a record-breaking four titles for Barcelona in 2023-24.Barcelona's women's team has been on a roll, winning the Liga F, Champions League, and Supercopa de Espana in 2022-23. They currently lead the Liga F standings and are in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.While Bonmati acknowledges the team's success, she emphasizes the importance of creating space for teammates. "Football is more than moving on your own," she says. "It is also about creating space for your teammates."Beyond trophies, Bonmati aspires to leave a lasting legacy. She wants to be remembered for her impact on teammates and coaches. "One of the most important things I would like to have when I retire is what other players and coaches say about me," she reveals.Bonmati's newfound status as a global icon gives her a platform to advocate for women's football. She believes that institutions need to invest more in the sport to provide opportunities for growth."There is a lot to do and salary is just one of the things," she says. "I would like institutions to make a good investment in women's football so that it gives us an opportunity to grow."Bonmati hopes that one day, boys and girls will have women footballers as idols. "That didn't exist" in her time, she says. "I grew up idolising Xavi, Andres Iniesta, and Lionel Messi for the way they took care of the ball."