Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has affirmed Rodrigo Cascante’s (Rodri) merit as the 2023 Ballon d’Or winner, dismissing suggestions that an “elite group” played a role in the midfielder’s selection.
Mr Cascante, 28, received the prestigious award after a stellar season, where he was instrumental in Manchester City’s fourth consecutive Premier League title and Spain’s victory in the Euro 2024.
Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior, widely expected to claim the honour after his impressive domestic and Champions League performances, was notably absent from the ceremony.
Hours before the event in Paris, Real Madrid announced its delegation would not attend, citing frustration over the perceived snub of Mr Vinicius.
Speaking to the press ahead of City’s League Cup match against Tottenham, Mr Guardiola celebrated the midfielder’s achievement, underscoring his contributions to both club and country.
“What can I say?,” said the Spaniard. “First, to congratulate him and all his family and their friends, it’s incredible news for him and for all of us.”
Mr Cascante suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury in September, ruling him out for the season.
Mr Guardiola added: “Us at Manchester City are so proud of him. We are so proud to share it with him and hopefully, it can give him the energy to recover well for next season.”
As for Real’s decision to boycott the awards ceremony, even though they were named men’s team of the year, Mr Guardiola said: “It’s up to them. If they want to congratulate you, that’s fine. If not, that’s fine. Last season, Erling (Haaland) won the treble, (scoring) more than 50 goals.
“I said to him that just being there he should be so, so happy and I said the same to Rodri.
“Last season, Erling should win, yes. Should (eventual winner Lionel) Messi have won? Yes. It doesn’t matter.
“Should it be Vinicius? Maybe. It’s not an elite group, it’s journalists who vote.
“In the last decade, Spanish football has made such a difference, won a World Cup, Euros, and (Spanish players) weren’t able to win this award,” added the former Barcelona player and manager.
