Rodri

Rodri is the captain of the Spain national team and a defensive midfielder for Manchester City, widely considered the best player in the world at the time of his 2024 Ballon d'Or win. He was the midfield engine of both Manchester City's 2022–23 treble and Spain's record fourth Euro title in 2024.

After coming through Villarreal's academy, Rodri returned to Atlético Madrid before Manchester City signed him for £62.6 million in 2019. Under Pep Guardiola he became indispensable, helping City win four consecutive Premier League titles and scoring the decisive goal in the 2022–23 Champions League final against Inter Milan — completing a historic continental treble.

Internationally, he took over as Spain's midfield pivot after Sergio Busquets retired and was named captain. His commanding performances at UEFA Euro 2024 earned him Player of the Tournament as Spain claimed their fourth European title. A serious knee injury in September 2024 sidelined him for most of the 2024–25 season, but he returned to fitness in May 2025.