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Here is everything you need to know about the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, from his childhood to how he rose to the pinnacle of individual success in football.
Rodrigo Hernández, known as Rodri, is one of the most consistent performers for Manchester City and the Spain national football team over the last couple of years.
The midfielder won the 2024 Ballon d'Or, awarded by France Football magazine and UEFA, leaving the football world divided on whether he is deserving or not.
However, opinions now matter for less, as Rodri became the first Spanish player to win the Ballon d'Or in the 21st century and the second in history to be recognised with the prestigious trophy.
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"It's a very special day. I want to thank the most special person for me, who is my girlfriend. Without you, this journey would not have been the same, he said after receiving the award in Paris.
“To my family, of course, and the values they have given me, which helped me not to make mistakes," the Bllon d’Or winner added.
Rodri Background
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Born in Madrid, Rodri was always affiliated with his city of birth, where he laid the foundation of what would be a blossoming career when he joined Atletico Madrid's youth setup in 2007 at just 11 years, from CF Rayo Majadahonda.
At Atletico, he formed a bond with the Herrnandez brothers, Theo and Lucas, and they earned the nickname ‘the family.
However, while the brothers thrived, Rodri struggled and was eventually released in 2013 due to a "lack of physical strength," but he was determined to succeed and subsequently signed with Villarreal.
It was Villarreal that Rodri eventually made some headway, earning his first-team debut on 17 December 2015, starting in a 2–0 home win against SD Huesca for that season's Copa del Rey.
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He made his first La Liga appearance four months later, on 17 April 2016, when he came on as a second-half substitute for Denis Suárez in a 2-1 away loss to Rayo Vallecano.
However, Rodri’s affiliation with Atletico was still deeply rooted in his heart, and he returned the club in 2018 on a five-year contract for a fee in the region of €20 million, plus €5 million in variables.
After one season, the midfielder departed for England to play under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, where he would go on to establish himself as one of the best midfielders in the world.
How old is Rodri? (Rodri age)
Rodri was born on June 22, 1996, in Madrid, Spain, making him 28 years old as of October 2024.
Rodri Club Career
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He began his professional journey at Villarreal CF in 2015, where he quickly established himself as a promising talent.
His impressive performances earned him a move back to Atlético Madrid in 2018, where he started his youth career. During his short senior stint at Atlético, Rodri further honed his skills and became a key player in their midfield.
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He made his debut for Atletico in the 2018 UEFA Super Cup in Tallinn, playing the first 71 minutes of a 4-2 extra-time win over city rivals Real Madrid to lift the trophy.
In 2019, Rodri made a high-profile transfer to Manchester City, where he has continued to excel under legendary manager Guardiola.
He has been instrumental in City's domestic dominance and eventual European success, playing a crucial role in their midfield.
In his first season, the Spaniard scored the winning goal as the club defeated Aston Villa 2-1 to lift the EFL Cup.
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Rodri scored the goal that earned Manchester City their first and only UEFA Champions League trophy till date in a 1-0 win over Inter Milan in the final.
He was named player of the match and was selected as the tournament's Player of the Season.
His ability to dictate the tempo of the game, break up opposition attacks, and distribute the ball effectively has made him an indispensable player for the Cityzens.
Throughout his career, Rodri has demonstrated exceptional technical ability, tactical intelligence, and physical strength.
Rodri International Career
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Rodri's international journey with Spain began in the youth ranks, representing the nation at the U16, U19, and U21 levels. His senior debut came in March 2018 against Germany.
Despite missing the 2018 World Cup, Rodri became a regular fixture in the Spanish squad, contributing to their Nations League campaign in the same year. His first international goal arrived in a 6-0 victory over Germany in 2020.
Rodri played a crucial role in Spain's Euro 2020 campaign and was also part of the Spanish squad that participated in the 2022 World Cup.
However, it was 2023 that truly showcased Rodri's international prowess. He was named Player of the Tournament as Spain lifted the UEFA Nations League trophy.
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His exceptional performances continued into 2024, where he led Spain to victory in the Euro 2024 final, earning the prestigious Player of the Tournament award once again.
Rodri Ballon d’Or
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Rodri made history by winning the prestigious Ballon d'Or in 2024, becoming the first ever Manchester City player to do so in history.
The Spanish star's exceptional performances for Manchester City and the Spanish national team earned him the coveted award in October 2024.
His impressive trophy haul, including the Premier League, UEFA Super Cup, Club World Cup, and the Euro 2024 title, solidified his position as one of the world's best players.
Rodri joins an elite group of English-based Ballon d'Or winners, including George Best and Michael Owen.
He is the first Spanish player to win the men's award since 1960 and the first Premier League player to win the award since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008.
After winning the award, he said, "Today is not a victory for me; it is for Spanish football, for so many players who have not won it and have deserved it, like [Andres] Iniesta, Xavi [Hernandez], Iker [Casillas], Sergio Busquets, and so many others. It is for Spanish football and for the figure of the midfielder."
Rodri Salary
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The Ballon d’Or winner currently earns £180,000 ($230,000) a week, but there are reports that City are ready to double his wages, which could become fast-tracked given his latest achievement.
Rodri’s current contract runs until 2027, and the club are ready to extend the contract of arguably their most important player.
As of 2024, his market value is currently over 140 million euros.
Rodri Net Worth
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According to reports, Rodri has a net worth of $15.6 million.
His substantial wealth is primarily derived from his lucrative contract with Manchester City, one of the world's richest football clubs.
Additionally, he earns significant income from various endorsement deals and commercial partnerships.
As a result of his recent Ballon d'Or win and continued success on the field, his net worth is expected to grow further in the coming years.
Rodri Injury
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The Spaniard suffered a significant knee injury during Manchester City's Premier League match against Arsenal in September 2024. The injury required surgery to repair a torn ACL and meniscus.
This injury is a major setback for both Rodri and Manchester City. The midfielder is expected to be out for the remainder of the 2024-2025 season, which is the longest injury absence he has ever had in his career.
His absence will undoubtedly impact City's midfield depth and overall performance.
Who is Rodri Dating?
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Rodri currently dates Laura Iglesias, who is a medical student training to become a surgeon. However, they do not have children together yet, nor have they tied the knot, and they keep their private lives off the internet.
The couple were seen together at the French Open in May 2024.
Rodri Instagram
The midfielder is not on social media, an information he went on to confirm after winning the Ballon d’Or.
“I have no social media; people don't know me much. I am just a normal guy,” he said
Rodri Achievements
Atlético Madrid
UEFA Super Cup: 2018
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Manchester City
Premier League: 2020–21, 2021–22, 2022–23, 2023–24
FA Cup: 2022–23; runner-up: 2023–24
EFL Cup: 2019–20, 2020–21
FA Community Shield: 2019
UEFA Champions League: 2022–23; runner-up: 2020–21
UEFA Super Cup: 2023
FIFA Club World Cup: 2023
Spain U19
UEFA European Under-19 Championship: 2015
Spain U21
UEFA European Under-21 Championship runner-up: 2017
Spain
UEFA European Championship: 2024
UEFA Nations League: 2022–23; runner-up: 2020–21
Individual
Ballon d'Or: 2024
UEFA Champions League Player of the Season: 2022–23
UEFA Champions League Team of the Season: 2022–23
Premier League Goal of the Month: November 2021
UEFA Nations League Finals Player of the Tournament: 2023
UEFA European Under-19 Championship Team of the Tournament: 2015
PFA Team of the Year: 2022–23 Premier League, 2023–24 Premier League
FIFA Club World Cup Golden Ball: 2023
IFFHS Men's World Team: 2023
Globe Soccer Awards Best Midfielder of the Year: 2023
The Athletic European Men's Team of the Season: 2023–24
UEFA European Championship Player of the Tournament: 2024
UEFA European Championship Team of the Tournament: 2024
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