The argument supporting Rodri winning the Ballon d’Or has been strengthened ever since his injury-enforced absence due to how much Manchester City have struggled without him in the side.
Manchester City are well and truly a different team in their midfield maestro’s absence.
The good news for City supporters is that it has been confirmed that ahead of their side’s clash against Tottenham Hotspur, Rodri will return to the Etihad Stadium as the Ballon d’Or will be presented to him.
Pep Guardiola congratulated Rodri after he won the prestigious award amongst several other senior figures at Manchester City.
Even Sky Blues legends such as Fernandinho lauded Rodri’s Ballon d’Or win after his triumph in Paris was confirmed.
The Spanish international will rightfully be honoured for making history as becoming the first-ever Manchester City player to win the accolade.
- READ MORE: Who is Rodri? Get to know Man City’s modest midfield maestro who won a Champions League final
Man City fans react to Rodri Ballon d’Or Etihad return
The 28-year-old is a fan favourite at the Etihad Stadium, having been one of the club’s best players and biggest leaders over the past couple of years.
The former Atletico Madrid technician even scored the winning goal in their one and only Champions League win, dispatching the ball past Andre Onana in City’s 1-0 victory against Inter Milan in 2023.
Manchester City supporters expressed their delight online about Rodri’s return and the prospect of witnessing him lifting the Ballon d’Or at the Etihad Stadium.
A City fan stated: Welcome back, King Rodri! Can’t wait to see him back at the Etihad after his historic Ballon d’Or win.”
Another Manchester City fan wrote: “The golden boy, Rodri!”
A Manchester City fan simply said: “The best player in the world. Fully deserved!”
Rodri revealed injury update
As honoured as he will be to be cheered on by a packed Etihad Stadium, Rodri provided an injury update recently, revealing that he can return to full fitness this season; which will remain his main priority.
The four-time Premier League winner said: “I have in mind to play this season.”
“Now, the seasons are getting longer and the [FIFA Club] World Cup ends on July 13, I have in mind to return this year, as a challenge.”
Rodri added: “I’ve already started walking and I’m feeling better than I thought.”
“Gavi used to say: ‘I need to play football’. At my age, you see it differently, you have time to rest and recover well.”
Manchester City’s focus will be on ensuring Rodri is fit and avoids any recurring injuries instead of placing an emphasis of him returning to the pitch as soon as possible.
