It is a pity — Arsenal legend reveals the only player who deserves 2024 Ballon d'Or

Former France and Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit believes Manchester City's Rodri is the best holding midfielder in the world, but will never receive the recognition he deserves with a Ballon d'Or award.

Rodri has been one of the most consistent footballers in Europe over the past two seasons and was especially crucial as Spain won EURO 2024.

"Pity that Rodri will never win the Ballon d'Or because he deserves it," Petit told Yahoo Sports.

"He has been the best holding midfielder in the world for the last couple of seasons."

Petit thinks Rodri's talent is often overlooked in favor of more flashy players, and that a Ballon d'Or win would be a nod to all underappreciated players:

"If he were to be recognised with the Ballon d'Or, then he would be winning it for all the players that normally go unrecognized when it comes to individual awards."

Rodri is yet to return to City training after enjoying an extended break but is expected to be back and available for the game against Chelsea in the Premier League's opening weekend on Sunday.