Former Super Eagles captain and ex-Chelsea midfielder Mikel Obi has shared his thoughts on who should win the 2024 Ballon d’Or. According to Mikel, Spanish international Rodri, who plays for Manchester City, is currently the best player in the world and his top pick for the prestigious award this year. During an episode of the Obi One Podcast, Mikel stated, “The best player I think for me, in my opinion, in the world now is Rodri.” His endorsement reflects the widespread admiration for Rodri’s performances over the past season.
The 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony, scheduled for Monday, October 28, at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, France, will see 30 nominees vying for the coveted award. Rodri has been a key figure in Manchester City’s successful 2023-24 campaign under Pep Guardiola, helping the team secure the Premier League title and finishing as runners-up in the FA Cup. Additionally, Rodri’s contributions were pivotal in Spain’s triumph at Euro 2024, where they defeated England 2-1 in the final. His all-around performances have established him as one of the standout players in football today.
Mikel Obi’s former coach for the Super Eagles, Sunday Oliseh, also expressed his support for Rodri as a leading candidate for the Ballon d’Or. Oliseh highlighted Rodri’s extraordinary abilities and recent accomplishments, saying, “Do we need to say more? Rodri is in a class of his own.” Oliseh’s praise underscores the impact Rodri has made at both the club and international levels, solidifying his reputation as one of the game’s elite midfielders. His combination of technical skills, tactical intelligence, and consistent performances make him a formidable contender for the award.
As anticipation builds for the Ballon d’Or ceremony, Rodri’s chances of winning the award appear strong. The midfielder’s exceptional form and achievements meet the criteria for the honor, placing him among the top contenders. While the final decision will be revealed in October, Rodri’s influence on the pitch and his pivotal role in recent successes make him a deserving candidate. Football fans and pundits alike will be eagerly watching to see if Rodri can add the prestigious Ballon d’Or trophy to his growing list of accolades.