Lamine Yamal and Rodri seem to have a mutual appreciation for each other.
Yamal suggested Rodri’s first touch is the best in the world by picking this very attribute of his while building his perfect player.
Pep Guardiola revealed Rodri always talks about Yamal — whom he described as “exceptional.”
Yamal’s father described Rodri as “great” in an Instagram post on his page as well.
The pair were arguably the two most important players for Luis de la Fuente’s Spain side that went on to win Euro 2024.
Rodri won the Player of the Tournament with Yamal won the Young Player of the Tournament.
Lamine Yamal says he “would like” Rodri to win the Ballon d’Or
Naturally, both players were also in the official Team of the Tournament that also featured the likes of Mike Maignan, Kyle Walker, Manuel Akanji, William Saliba, Marc Cucurella, Fabian Ruiz, Dani Olmo and Jamal Musiala.
It seemed like two areas where Spain perhaps had an advantage over the rest is in defensive midfield and out wide as both players in question are arguably the best in the business in their respective positions.
After Barcelona demolished Real Madrid 4-0 on Saturday, Yamal admitted that he wishes that Rodri wins the Ballon d’Or on Monday night.
The 17-year-old said via Jijantes FC’s Twitch stream: “I would like and hope that Rodri will win it.”
Last week, journalist Ben Jacobs claimed that Vinicius Jr is set to be awarded the Ballon d’Or — which might be disappointing for Yamal.
Thierry Henry feels Rodri deserves the Ballon d’Or over Vinicius due to his superior performances at Euro 2024 in comparison to the Brazilian’s at Copa America.
The Barcelona sensation is aware of how brilliant of a player Rodri is and how vital he was behind Spain’s European Championship triumph.
However, it seems like the Real Madrid superstar is destined to win the award for the first time in his career.
Ruben Dias says “special” Rodri should win the Ballon d’Or
Speaking to ESPN Brazil, Ruben Dias claimed that in his eyes, his Manchester City teammate Rodri should win the Ballon d’Or.
“Rodri should win the Ballon d’Or! He had an impressive season. Not one…many in a row. He won the Euros, which is not found in every generation. Without a doubt, a special player.”
Kalvin Phillips also feels Rodri should win the Ballon d’Or after the outstanding year he had for both club and country.
However, Ederson feels Vinicius should win the Ballon d’Or over Rodri in what was quite a surprising admission from the Manchester City goalkeeper.
Lothar Matthaus feels Rodri deserves the Ballon d’Or over the two-time Champions League winner in what seems to be a constant debate.
After the winner is officially announced, it seems likely that the discourse around the Ballon d’Or will continue.
