There is new and growing hope at Manchester City that the club could crown its first Ballon d'Or winner in Paris on Monday evening.

The Premier League champions have a total of four nominations for the annual awards ceremony, widely regarded as the pinnacle of individual awards in football around the world.

A total of four names from Pep Guardiola's first team were nominated for Manchester City's recent historic achievements in the game, including Phil Foden, Ruben Dias and Erling Haaland.

However, the name most strongly linked with big chances of winning the Ballon d'Or is defensive midfield superstar Rodri, whose individual performances for Manchester City and his importance to the team have increased over the summer months.

Rodri was instrumental in Spain's success at the European Championships in Germany and was named player of the tournament for his performances on the pitch. He is considered one of the favorites to win the Ballon d'Or.

And new reports ahead of Monday night's ceremony in Paris suggest his chances of winning the award may have increased significantly as a certain mood has emerged in the camp of one of his main rivals for the award.

According to new information from RMC Sport's Fabrice Hawkins, Vinicius Jr.'s entourage is now “convinced” that the Brazil international will not be named the 2024 Ballon d'Or recipient.

It goes on to explain that, in addition to those around the striker, “everyone” at Real Madrid shares the same feeling ahead of Monday evening's awards ceremony in the French capital.

This is a developing story. More to follow.