Manchester City’s star midfielder, Rodri, recently shared his surprising picks for the 2024 Ballon d’Or votes.

Despite his stellar performances this season, which ultimately earned him the prestigious title, he didn’t put himself on top when voting for the award.

Instead, he revealed he cast his vote for two Real Madrid standouts, Dani Carvajal and Vinicius Junior, selecting Carvajal as his second choice and Vinicius as his third.

Rodri’s win at the 2024 Ballon d’Or awards marks a major milestone in his career.

At 28, he’s risen to become one of football’s most consistent midfielders, playing a crucial role for both his club and country.

His contribution helped Manchester City secure another Premier League title, and he played a pivotal role in leading Spain to a memorable victory at Euro 2024 in Germany, further solidifying his place among the sport’s elite.

Reflecting on his votes, Rodri mentioned that he admired Carvajal’s defensive skills and leadership on the field, while Vinicius’s rapid growth and fearless style impressed him.

Both players, known for their dynamic performances at Real Madrid, have shown resilience and passion, becoming key figures in Spanish football.

Carvajal, with his wealth of experience, continues to be a defensive rock for Real Madrid, while Vinicius, at just 24, is carving his place as one of the world’s most exciting young talents, known for his explosive pace and creative flair.

In his interview with Partidazo Cope, Rodri expressed his admiration for his fellow players, stating, “I’d vote Dani Carvajal as 2nd at the Ballon d’Or and Vinicius Jr as 3rd.”

He also mentioned his respect for both players’ contributions on and off the field.