Fernandinho: I’m really proud of Rodri! | OneFootball

Fernandinho has hailed former teammate Rodri for his brilliant Ballon d’Or triumph as our Spanish midfielder gets set for an emotional return to the Etihad this evening.

Rodri will be at the Tottenham match tonight and is set to showcase his iconic individual trophy to the crowd pre-game.

Fernandinho, speaking this week ahead of the Spurs encounter, said he’s really proud of Rodri and also revealed his delight that a holding midfielder has won the prestigious football honour.

“I am really proud of him,” he said.

“I saw him growing up, going through the process to become one of the most consistent players in  the world, playing for a top team and for his national side.

“It’s really nice when you see someone really close to you winning this award.

CITY V TOTTENHAM MATCH PROGRAMME | RODRI SPECIAL

“Obviously individually it’s a really nice award but I’m pretty sure he knows he’s got the contribution from the club and every player who helped him achieve that moment.

“Especially with the modern football, most of the people give prizes for the strikers or the players who score goals.

“But now you can see they are seeing football in a different way. It’s really nice.”

WATCH: Rodri: I can’t wait to share Ballon d’Or success with the fans

Fernandinho was a teammate of Rodri for three seasons in sky blue and has retained a close friendship with the likeable central star in the years that have followed.

He's watched our No.16 develop into a dynamic and powerful defensive midfielder.

But what specifically does Fernandinho like about Rodri’s game?

“The consistency, his quality with the ball, his understanding of the game, he started to read the game really well, the decisions he makes helps the team to play better, helps the other players to play better as well.

“I used to say when you have the ball you control everything so I think one of his qualities is that when he has the ball he controls everything. He makes the best decisions possible.”

WATCH: Watch: Why Rodrigo won the Ballon d’Or

City are currently looking to get back on track after four defeats across three competitions.

With domestic football returning after the international break tonight, our former captain has no doubts the brilliant Blues will be back to their best very soon.

“Never doubt City,” he added.

“I am sure they will recover as soon as possible.

“Don’t worry, City will show their strength.”