The 28-year-old has been sidelined since suffering an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during Manchester City’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal in the Premier League back in September. ..Continue Reading
His absence has been keenly felt as City have struggled to maintain consistent form.
Players like Mateo Kovacic, Rico Lewis, and new signing Nico Gonzalez have stepped in but have yet to reach the level of the Spaniard.
In October 2024, Rodri was awarded the Ballon d’Or, despite Real Madrid forward Vini Jr being the favorite ahead of the ceremony in Paris, France.
The award typically honors the best player in the world from the previous season.
Despite making his actions on the football pitch look effortless, Rodri identified two players as his toughest opponents.
Speaking to JD, he said: “I would say two. Of course, for me, the best player I faced and the most difficult one has been [Lionel] Messi by far.
“But if I have to tell you in my career, I would say Mo Salah because many times we face them.
“We all know the rivalry we have between City and Liverpool. And wow, he’s a fantastic player. But it’s so so painful when he’s at his best level.”
At 32, Salah is undoubtedly aiming to clinch this year’s Ballon d’Or, having tallied an impressive 29 goals and 20 assists in the 2024/25 season.
While the Egyptian star is a strong contender for the award, rivals such as Vini Jr and Kylian Mbappe are also expected to be in the running.
“I am really motivated to win the Premier League,” Salah explained in an interview with Sky Sports last month.
“90% of winning an individual award depends on your performance with the team and winning a trophy with the team.
“If you win with your team, you have a better chance to win a Ballon d’Or or something like that.
“I don’t just want to have a small part. “I want to win it and then for people to say he made the difference and made the team win.”
