Rodri Hernández, the talented midfielder for Manchester City and the Spanish national team, has been recognized as the standout player in both the Champions League and the UEFA Nations League.
Throughout the season, Rodri Hernández has truly earned his place among the football elite. Having secured the Nations League title with Spain, the midfielder has had an extraordinary campaign, clinching victories in the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League with Manchester City. His significant contributions as a key starter for both teams undeniably position Rodri Hernández as an exceptionally deserving candidate for the prestigious Ballon d’Or. However, winning this coveted individual award will undoubtedly present a formidable challenge.
On Sunday, June 18, Rodri Hernández concluded an unforgettable season as he sealed his fourth championship title of the campaign. Spain emerged triumphant against Croatia in the UEFA Nations League final, a hard-fought contest that was ultimately decided by a penalty shootout. Notably, Rodri Hernández expertly converted the third penalty for La Roja.
Impressing onlookers with his sensational performance during regulation time and extra time, Rodri Hernández rightfully earned the title of the final’s best player. This well-deserved award stands as a testament to his vital role and remarkable contributions on the field.
This individual accolade serves as a remarkable addition to Rodri Hernández’s recent recognition as the best player of the UEFA Champions League 2023, including the final triumph achieved by Manchester City. Furthermore, his instrumental role in Manchester City’s conquest of the Premier League this season cannot be overlooked.
Given his extraordinary achievements, Rodri Hernández emerges as a strong contender for the Ballon d’Or, the illustrious accolade bestowed by France Football magazine upon the season’s finest player. Nonetheless, his path to victory will not be without obstacles, as the frontrunner for the award is none other than Leo Messi, who, after leading Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup, is widely regarded as the favorite.
Rodri Hernández joins a distinguished list of Spanish players who have aspired to win the Ballon d’Or, a feat that has been accomplished only once by Luis Suárez in 1960. Among those who came agonizingly close to claiming the award were Raúl González from Real Madrid in 2001 and Andrés Iniesta in 2010. Despite their exceptional performances, both players ultimately finished as runners-up in the voting process. Raúl González, serving as the esteemed captain of a title-winning Real Madrid side, and Andrés Iniesta, who led the Spanish national team to World Cup glory in South Africa, showcased their immense talent, yet fell short of the ultimate recognition.
