The Ballon d’Or, football’s most prestigious individual accolade, has always been a topic of immense debate and excitement. Awarded annually by France Football since 1956, it recognizes the best footballer in the world based on their performance over the past year.
With Lionel Messi’s unprecedented run of victories now over, the 2024 nominations are particularly compelling, featuring a blend of established stars and rising talents.
Front-Runners for the 2024 Ballon d’Or
1. Vinícius Júnior: The Brazilian winger has been a revelation for Real Madrid, showcasing flair, speed, and technical brilliance. His performances in the Champions League were pivotal in Real Madrid’s triumph, and his form continues to impress in domestic competitions. With a blend of creativity and consistency, Vinícius Júnior is a leading candidate for the Ballon d’Or.
2. Rodri: Rodri has been a cornerstone for both Manchester City and Spain. His tactical intelligence and midfield dominance were crucial in Manchester City’s treble-winning season and Spain’s Euro 2024 victory. Rodri’s role as a defensive midfielder often goes unnoticed, but his contributions to both club and country are undeniable, making him a serious contender.
3. Jude Bellingham: Jude Bellingham’s transition to Real Madrid has been seamless, and his performances have been nothing short of stellar. At just 21, Bellingham has already established himself as one of the top midfielders in the world. His performances at Euro 2024, coupled with his role in Real Madrid’s success, make him a strong candidate for the prestigious award.
Notable Absences
1. Mohamed Salah: Mohamed Salah’s omission from the 2024 shortlist is a significant surprise. Despite his impressive tally of 39 goals and assists last season and a strong start to the current campaign, Salah’s exclusion might be attributed to Liverpool’s lack of major silverware. His consistent excellence over the years, however, suggests that he deserved a spot on the list.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi: For the first time since 2003, neither Cristiano Ronaldo nor Lionel Messi appears on the Ballon d’Or shortlist. This marks a dramatic shift in the footballing landscape, signaling the end of an era. While Messi’s absence is partly due to his move to Inter Miami and less prominent performances in club competitions, Ronaldo’s exclusion reflects the changing dynamics in football.
Unlucky to Miss Out
1. Robert Lewandowski: Robert Lewandowski’s remarkable goal-scoring record with Barcelona last season makes his absence from the list surprising. Despite a stellar individual performance, the lack of significant team success might have worked against him.
2. Kylian Mbappé: While Mbappé remains one of the world’s best, his exclusion from the shortlist is a point of contention. His performances for Paris Saint-Germain and his role in the France national team should have at least earned him a spot among the top contenders.
Young Talent on the Rise
1. Lamine Yamal: At just 16 years old, Lamine Yamal’s inclusion on the Ballon d’Or shortlist is a testament to his extraordinary talent. His performances for Barcelona and Spain have been remarkable, setting numerous records and highlighting his potential as one of football’s brightest young stars.
2. Cole Palmer: Cole Palmer’s rise from Manchester City to Chelsea has been one of the most talked-about stories of the year. His performances since his transfer have been impressive, and making it to the Ballon d’Or shortlist in just a year is a significant achievement.
Women’s Ballon d’Or
1. Aitana Bonmatí: As the current holder, Aitana Bonmatí remains a strong candidate for the 2024 Women’s Ballon d’Or. Her performances for Barcelona and the Spanish national team have been outstanding, continuing her legacy as one of the world’s best female footballers.
2. Lauren James and Others: Lauren James, Lucy Bronze, Lauren Hemp, and Khadija Shaw have also been recognized for their exceptional performances. Their inclusion highlights the growing depth and talent in women’s football, showcasing the sport’s continued evolution.
3. Sarina Wiegman: Sarina Wiegman’s nomination for Coach of the Year reflects her significant impact on women’s football, particularly with the Lionesses. Her leadership and tactical acumen have been instrumental in her team’s success.
Conclusion
The 2024 Ballon d’Or nominations offer a fascinating glimpse into the evolving landscape of football. With Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo absent for the first time in decades, new stars and established players vie for the prestigious title. As the world eagerly awaits the announcement on October 28, the debate over who deserves to win will undoubtedly continue, showcasing the depth and excitement of the beautiful game.