Mikel Obi predicts Euro 2024 champion as next Ballon d’Or winner

Super Eagles captain and former Chelsea midfielder, Mikel Obi, has hinted at who he believes will win the next Ballon d’Or, as reported by Soccernet.ng.

The 2024 Ballon d’Or award ceremony is scheduled for Monday, October 28, 2024, at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, France. This prestigious event will feature 30 nominees.

According to the former Nigerian midfielder, Rodrigo Hernández Cascante, known as Rodri, is currently the best player in the world and is his top pick for the award this year.

“The best player I think for me, in my opinion in the world now is Rodri,” Mikel stated on the Obi One Podcast.

Meanwhile Mikel’s former Super Eagles coach Sunday Oliseh also tipped the Manchester City star to win the prestigious award after he brilliantly helped Spain win the trophy after defeating England 2-1 in the final.

“Do we need to say more? Rodri is in a class of his own.” he wrote on his social media page.

The Spanish international has been instrumental for Manchester City under the management of Pep Guardiola, helping the team secure the 2023-24 Premier League title and finish as runners-up in the 2023-24 FA Cup. Additionally, Rodri played a crucial role in Spain’s victory at Euro 2024.

Rodri’s exceptional performances meet the criteria for winning the Ballon d’Or, making him a strong contender for the award. However, the final decision will be revealed at the ceremony in October.