We are less than a month away from the Ballon d’Or 2024 ceremony. For the first time in 21 years, neither 8-time and current winner Lionel Messi nor 5-time winner Cristiano Ronaldo made it to the list of top 30 contenders.
Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi will likely hand over the trophy to the new generation on October 28 at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris. Although the nomination list comprises incredible talent, only one of them will emerge victorious and take the golden ball home. Here, we will take a look at the five athletes who are most likely to win the Ballon d’Or 2024.
Via x(Formerly Twitter) @ballondor
Top 5 Ballon d'Or Contenders for 2024
#5. Dani Carvajal – Real Madrid
The 32-year-old Right Back was instrumental for both Real Madrid and Spain this year. Dani Carvajal opened the scoring against Borussia Dortmund in the 2024 Champions League final, thanks to which the Spanish giants won their 15th UCL title. Carvajal held the fort for the Los Blancos on the right side, helping them win the Spanish league and Supercopa de Espana.
On the international stage, Carvajal scored for Spain in the initial phase of Euro Cup 2024. His presence was crucial for Spain’s Euro Cup win. Carvajal charted seven goals and eight assists in the 2023-24 season. Despite winning four trophies, the Madrid legend might not make it to the podium.
#4. Lautaro Martinez – Inter Milan
2023-24 was a redemption season for the Argentine. The 27-year-old cleared his slate with incredible performance for both club and country. He scored 24 goals in the Seria A and led Inter Milan to the Italian title. He also won the Supercoppa Italiana in the last season. However, he missed from the spot against Atletico Madrid in the penalty shootout in UCL RO16, resulting in Inter Milan’s early exit from the tournament.
Martinez stepped up for Argentina at the 2024 Copa America. He shut his critics with the championship-deciding goal in the extra time of the final. His strike made sure that Lionel Messi & Co. retained their title. He won the Copa America Golden Boot with five goals. He might not make it to the top top 3 owing to his early exit from the Champions League.
#3. Jude Bellingham – Real Madrid
Jude Bellingham signed for Real Madrid last season and was undoubtedly the best player in the first half of the season. He struck whenever the situation demanded and pulled the Los Blancos out of trouble. He missed some games but announced his return by knocking Manchester City out of the Champions League.
Bellingham’s goal against Slovakia ensured England’s survival in the Euro Cup 2024. The Three Lions made it to the finals, where they lost to Spain. Rodri finished the season with 27 goals and 17 assists, Champions League, La Liga and Supercopa de Espana. He is certain to finish on the podium on October 28.
#2. Rodri – Manchester City
Rodri solidified his claim of being the best defensive midfielder in the world last year with each game. Not only did he score crucial goals, but Rodri also provided important assists throughout the season. It was his goal that sealed Manchester City’s fourth consecutive Premier League Title. Rodri was the most important member of the Manchester City side that completed the treble in the 2023-24 season.
The Spanish midfielder was named the Player of the Tournament as Spain won the Euro Cup 2024. Rodri scored 12 goals and assisted on 15 occasions. His Euro Cup POTT, Euro Cup, Premier League, Club World Cup and UEFA Super Cup will surely put a great fight for the Ballon d’Or.
#1. Vinicius Jr – Real Madrid
Vinicius didn’t let Carlos Ancelotti’s side feel Karim Benzama’s absence. After regaining his health, the Brazilian scored frequently. His hat-trick helped Los Blancos win their 13th Supercopa de Esapan against arch-rivals FC Barcelona. Vinicius was named the Player of the Match award in both legs of the 2024 Champions League semi-final as Madrid slid past Bayern Munich to book their ticket to the finals. The 24-year-old scored in the final against German side Borussia Dortmund to confirm Real Madrid’s 15th title.
Things didn’t go according to plan for Vinicius on the international stage. The Real Madrid winger was suspended for five-time World Cup winner’s Quarter-final Copa America 2024 clash against Uruguay after scoring two goals against Paraguay. Vinicius and Brazil were knocked out of the tournament after losing on penalties. But his 26 goals, 12 assists, La Liga, Champions League and Supercopa de Espana might be enough to land him his first golden ball.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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