Rodri named best player at 2026 World Cup

[Getty Images] Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri was named best player at the 2026 World Cup. The 30-year-old was a key figure in Spain's run to a second men's World Cup title and beat Argetina's Lionel Messi - the second-best player - to the Golden Ball. He received the trophy from Fifa president Gianni Infantino on the field at the MetLife Stadium following the final in New Jersey on Sunday. It is the third major individual accolade of Rodri's career, having won the Ballon d'Or in 2023 and then Uefa Euro 2024 Player of the Tournament after Spain's final triumph against England two years ago. France striker Kylian Mbappe claimed the Bronze Ball and Golden Boot. It rounded off a special evening for Spain captain Rodri, who also lifted the World Cup trophy surrounded by his team-mates. Rodri, as per Fifa rules, will now have three weeks off to rest and recover before returning to City for the 2026-27 Premier League campaign under new boss Enzo Maresca. As FA Cup holders, City play league champions Arsenal in the Community Shield on Sunday, 16 August, before kicking off their season against Bournemouth a week later.