Rodri surprises: he leaves out Messi and Vinicius to name an African as his toughest opponent

2024 Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, widely regarded as one of the finest midfielders of his generation, recently made an unexpected revelation about the toughest opponent he has faced. Despite having competed against world-class players like Lionel Messi and Vinicius Jr., the Manchester City star pointed to Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah as his most formidable adversary.

In an interview with France Football, Rodri shared insights about his stellar career, his triumphs with Manchester City, and his experiences on the pitch. At just 28 years old, the Spaniard has cemented his legacy as an indispensable figure for the Citizens, consistently delivering exceptional performances. Over the past year, his contributions were pivotal in Manchester City’s treble-winning campaign, earning him the prestigious Ballon d’Or.

When asked about the most challenging team he had faced, Rodri named Liverpool’s 2019/2020 side without hesitation. “Liverpool of that era was on another level. Their pressing, intensity, and tactical discipline made them the most difficult team I’ve ever played against,” he remarked.

Rodri’s admiration for Liverpool didn’t stop there. He delved into what set their talisman, Mohamed Salah, apart from the rest. “Salah at his peak was incredible. He’s different from players like Neymar or Vinicius, who are dazzling with their skills and flair. Salah is direct and cuts through defenses like a hot knife through butter. He’s relentless and always finds a way to make an impact,” Rodri explained.

The Spaniard’s glowing praise for Salah highlights the Egyptian’s immense influence on world football. Salah, who recently became the 8th highest scorer in Premier League history, has long been celebrated for his consistency, work ethic, and clinical finishing. His ability to combine pace, power, and precision makes him a nightmare for defenders.

Interestingly, Rodri also reflected on his own growth as a player. Coming through the ranks at Villarreal and later shining at Atlético Madrid, Rodri’s journey to becoming one of Manchester City’s most valuable assets was far from easy. Under Pep Guardiola’s guidance, he evolved into a complete midfielder, capable of controlling games with his passing, tactical awareness, and defensive solidity.

Rodri’s acknowledgment of Salah over global superstars like Messi or Vinicius Jr. is a testament to the Egyptian’s influence during his prime years. While Messi is often considered the greatest of all time, and Vinicius Jr. represents the new wave of Brazilian brilliance, Salah’s unique blend of attributes makes him stand out in his own right.

The interview also highlighted Rodri’s views on other players he has admired. While he refrained from drawing comparisons, he noted that each great player offers something different. “Neymar and Vinicius are artists; they’re mesmerizing to watch. But Salah is all about efficiency. He’s not just about beautiful football; he’s about winning,” Rodri stated.

The Ballon d’Or winner’s honest assessment is a reminder of Salah’s dominance during Liverpool’s peak years. Under Jürgen Klopp, Salah played a crucial role in helping the Reds win the Premier League, Champions League, and Club World Cup. His impact on the pitch and his ability to deliver in crucial moments made him an irreplaceable part of Liverpool’s success.

Rodri’s comments come at a time when Salah is still delivering standout performances for both Liverpool and Egypt. At 32, the winger continues to defy age, maintaining his place among the world’s elite players. His longevity, coupled with his consistent goal-scoring ability, ensures his legacy will endure for years to come.

Rodri’s admiration also sheds light on the evolving dynamics of football. In a sport often dominated by European and South American stars, Salah’s rise represents the growing prominence of African talent on the global stage. Players like Victor Osimhen, Sadio Mané, and Riyad Mahrez have followed similar paths, showcasing the continent’s vast potential.

Reflecting on his Ballon d’Or win, Rodri humbly credited his teammates and coaching staff for their support. “Individual awards are great, but football is a team sport. I wouldn’t have achieved this without my teammates and Pep’s guidance,” he said.

As Rodri continues to dominate the midfield for Manchester City and Spain, his respect for Salah serves as a powerful reminder of the influence great opponents have on shaping a player’s career. “Facing players like Salah pushes you to be better. They test you in ways no one else can,” Rodri concluded.

With the 2024 Ballon d’Or in his trophy cabinet and countless accolades to his name, Rodri’s legacy as one of football’s greatest midfielders is firmly established. Yet, his recognition of Salah’s brilliance highlights the mutual respect that exists among football’s elite—a hallmark of the beautiful game.