Prior to the Euro final, Spanish newspaper Marca published an interview with Rodri, Spain’s vice-captain and Manchester City star. Rodri stated that he is indifferent to whether he will be the only Spaniard on the Ballon d’Or shortlist, as his focus lies solely on winning the Euro championship.
When asked by a reporter if he thinks he will be the sole Spaniard on the Ballon d’Or list, Rodri responded, “In truth, I’m not concerned about that. My focus is on winning the Euros. As I’ve said before, whether I receive recognition or not should be judged by others. I am here solely to win a team title!”
The reporter then inquired if a Spanish victory would lay a solid foundation for winning the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Rodri remarked, “This is a Euro final that will etch our names in history. If we win, we will become the nation with the most Euro titles. Let’s take it one step at a time. It’s not appropriate to think too far ahead when we’re uncertain about becoming champions and how the team will progress. Football evolves rapidly. Let’s advance step by step. Reaching the final is a small step; let’s strive for victory and leave valuable legacy for the team. That’s our mindset.”
Currently, Spanish fans are debating which team is stronger: the current squad or the ‘Dream Team’ (the 2008-2012 team led by Xavi and Iniesta that won two Euros and a World Cup). Rodri commented, “The issue is, I believe every team and generation of players is unique. Players change, football changes. You don’t have to follow the same path as another successful generation; you must utilize your talents and forge your own winning ways. Each generation has its time of success, but now we are a new generation, one that wants to make history and be different. We want to be remembered by future generations, and we are close to achieving that goal. We will strive to write history once again.”
Rodri repeatedly emphasized his desire for victory: “Aragonese said that no one remembers the runner-up? I completely agree. We are here to win. Of course, you can give it your all and then leave with your head held high after losing, but history and fans remember the winners. That’s how sports work. We have done well since arriving here, but we want more, we want victory! We didn’t come here to tell everyone how well we performed, but to win!”