Messi Passes the Torch
Although Lionel Messi secured a record eighth Ballon d’Or in 2023, the 2024 race for football’s most prestigious individual honor brings new contenders into the spotlight. Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior, known for his role in their Champions League triumph, is one of the frontrunners. Meanwhile, Manchester City’s Rodri, named Euro 2024 Player of the Tournament, stands as another formidable candidate. Moreover, England’s Jude Bellingham, alongside stars like Harry Kane and Declan Rice, rounds out the highly competitive list of nominees.
Bellingham’s Challenge
In order to claim the Ballon d’Or, Bellingham must surpass both his Real Madrid teammate Vinicius and Manchester City’s Rodri. His debut season at Real Madrid has been exceptional, with highlights including two stoppage-time winners in El Clasico. Furthermore, Bellingham’s role in guiding England to the Euro 2024 final showcased his leadership on the international stage. However, despite his incredible performances, England’s loss to Spain in the final may have impacted his chances.
Vinicius and Rodri: Tough Competition
On the other hand, Vinicius Junior’s hat-trick in the Spanish Super Cup final, coupled with his significant contribution to Real Madrid’s Champions League victory, strengthens his claim to the award. Additionally, Rodri’s crucial role in both Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph and Manchester City’s Premier League defense makes him a strong competitor. Consequently, these achievements place both players among the favorites for the 2024 Ballon d’Or.
Strong Representation for England
Nevertheless, Bellingham is not alone in representing England. Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, who netted an impressive 38 goals last season, is another strong contender. His teammates, Phil Foden and Ruben Dias, are also among the nominees. England’s Euro 2024 squad is further represented by Harry Kane, Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, and Cole Palmer. In fact, this marks the highest number of England players ever nominated for the award, surpassing the previous record of five in 2005.
New Faces and Record Setters
Furthermore, Bayer Leverkusen’s Granit Xhaka has earned a nomination for his pivotal role in his club’s double-winning season. At just 17 years old, Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal has made history as the youngest-ever nominee, breaking Kylian Mbappe’s previous record. In addition, Yamal is also in the running for the Kopa Trophy, awarded to the best player under 21.
Interestingly, for the first time since 2003, neither Lionel Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo has been nominated for the Ballon d’Or, signaling a major shift in the footballing landscape.
Ballon d’Or Nominations 2024
Jude Bellingham – Real Madrid
Ruben Dias – Manchester City
Phil Foden – Manchester City
Federico Valverde – Real Madrid
Emiliano Martinez – Aston Villa
Erling Haaland – Manchester City
Nico Williams – Athletic Bilbao
Granit Xhaka – Bayer Leverkusen
Artem Dovbyk – AS Roma
Toni Kroos – Real Madrid (retired)
Vinicius Jr. – Real Madrid
Dani Olmo – Barcelona
Florian Wirtz – Bayer Leverkusen
Martin Odegaard – Arsenal
Mats Hummels – Borussia Dortmund
Rodri – Manchester City
Harry Kane – Bayern Munich
Declan Rice – Arsenal
Vitinha – Paris Saint-Germain
Cole Palmer – Chelsea
Dani Carvajal – Real Madrid
Lamine Yamal – Barcelona
Bukayo Saka – Arsenal
Hakan Calhanoglu – Inter Milan
William Saliba – Arsenal
Kylian Mbappe – Real Madrid
Lautaro Martinez – Inter Milan
Ademola Lookman – Atalanta
Antonio Rudiger – Real Madrid
Alejandro Grimaldo – Bayer Leverkusen
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