Ferdinand on the Ballon d'Or: "I prefer individualists who gets you off your seat and shout"
Former Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand has shared his views on which players he believes are deserving of the Ballon d'Or.
In 2024, the prestigious award was claimed by Manchester City's midfielder Rodri, who edged out Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior.
"I think the fact that Spain won the Euros and obviously Vinicius didn't really perform in Copa America. But what I would say, is I am not against Rodri winning it. Rodri is a phenomenal footballer, I love him, I think he is the best midfielder in the world, the best conductor in the game and I am not against him winning it at all.
But no point saying Rodri is undeserving of this title because he is a phenomenal footballer," Ferdinand said in an interview with TNT Sports.
Rodri becomes the third Spanish footballer in history to win the Ballon d'Or, following in the footsteps of Alfredo Di Stefano (1957, 1959) and Luis Suarez Miramontes (1960). Last season, the midfielder clinched both the English Premier League and the FIFA Club World Cup with Manchester City, while also becoming a European champion with the Spanish national team.
The 28-year-old City stalwart scored nine goals and provided 14 assists in 50 club matches during the past campaign. At Euro 2024, Rodri netted once in six appearances.
Read more: