When Rodri lifted the 2024 Ballon d'Or, it felt like the world had finally applauded a midfielder who had done it all, winning Premier League titles with Manchester City, European Championship success with Spain, and delivering performances that made him seem untouchable. There were debates at the time about whether he truly deserved it. Some argued that Vincius Jnior, fresh off a LaLiga and Champions League double with Real Madrid, had been robbed. That discussion has faded, replaced by a different story. Rodri has hardly made an impact on the field since winning the trophy.
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Almost immediately after the Paris ceremony, Rodri's foot
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