Spain boss Luis de la Fuente believes that Spain are due more Ballon d’Or wins and has tipped one of his players to win the coveted award in the men’s category next month.
He is also one of the favorites to win the Johan Cruyff Trophy as coach of the year.
By beating Vinícius Júnior, Rodri became the first Spanish man to win the Ballon d’Or in 2024 since Luis Suárez won in 1960.
Spain failed to secure the coveted award in 2010 despite winning the World Cup. It was Lionel Messi who won it to the chagrin of many football lovers who felt one of Dutch player Wesley Sneijder, Andrés Iniesta, or Xavi Hernández should have won it.
Following Spain’s victory in the second world title as the best team according to FIFA’s rankings in the United States, Canada, and Mexico this summer, de la Fuente believes that it is high time that a Spanish player secured the award.
“History Owes Us”
“History owes Spanish football more than one Ballon d’Or,” De la Fuente made this claim in the pre-match press conference ahead of Tuesday’s UEFA Nations League match against Croatia.
“It was a great joy when Rodrigo won it, and now I would wish another Spaniard to win it. It would give me the same thrill whichever of them won.
“Not just because of my relationship with one or another, but because in my view they are the best in the world in their positions.”
“I think we’ve earned it, and by that, I include my entire staff – the same as others – to be candidates to win it.
“Putting yourself forward isn’t my style, but it would make me incredibly happy. Tell them to take note!”
Rodri vs. Lamine Yamal
Six Spaniards have been nominated for the men’s Ballon d’Or among the 30 nominees.
Of these, Rodri, having already bagged the Golden Ball, awarded to the best player at the World Cup, seeks to get the award for the second time in three years.
On his part, Lamine Yamal, at the age of 19, stands a chance of becoming the youngest Ballon d’Or winner following a brilliant season that saw him play a major role in Barcelona’s league title.
