Barcelona star Rodri has dismissed rumors that he rejected a transfer to Real Madrid because of the club’s boycott of the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony. After leaving Manchester City, Rodri opted to join their fierce rivals, Barcelona, instead of moving to Real Madrid.
In a chat with the club’s website, Rodri stated that the past Ballon d’Or tension did not affect him and that his choice was entirely based on sporting aspects, the tactical project under Hansi Flick and Deco, and where he felt he could grow. “It’s not true that I rejected Real Madrid because they boycotted the Ballon d’Or. At the time, it didn’t affect me. It was my special day.
“There’s no point in talking about people who were not at the ceremony. It was a beautiful moment for my family and I. “Saying no to Real Madrid was not easy, especially since they treated me so well.
“I made my decision based on sporting aspects, on what excited me more, and where I felt I could win and grow the most as a player.” Real Madrid previously boycotted the 2024 Ballon d’Or gala after learning Vinicius Junior would not win the award, with the prize ultimately going to Rodri.