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Man City star Rodri slams Ballon d'Or award as he suggests winners are selected 'based on marketing, money and advertising'

Manchester City midfielder Rodri has hit out at the Ballon d'Or award by suggesting the winner is decided based on 'marketing' and other factors.

It was Lionel Messi who clinched his eighth Ballon d'Or title after winning the men's award at the 2023 ceremony following his outstanding season leading Argentina to World Cup glory.

Rodri, who also had a memorable season after winning the treble with Man City, was overlooked and finished fifth.

As well as Messi, he was placed behind City team-mates Kevin De Bruyne, Erling Haaland as well as PSG star Kylian Mbappe.