"Football is for everyone, not just Real Madrid"

Real Madrid's Liga and Champions League double winner Vinicius Junior had been the favourite to collect the trophy. But hours before Monday's awards ceremony in Paris, the Spanish giants announced its delegation would not attend because of what it perceived as a snub of Vinicius.

Rodri, 28 received the trophy after helping City win a fourth consecutive Premier League title and also starring in Spain's Euro 2024 triumph.

"Well deserved. Rodri is the best player in the world. Football is for everyone, not just Real Madrid – they are so entitled," former Manchester City player Sergio Aguero said on his streaming channel.