The Ballon d’Or 2024 marks the end of an era. For the first time in 20 years, neither Lionel Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo are in contention for football’s most prestigious individual award.
With a new generation stepping up, the race for the Ballon d’Or is more unpredictable than ever. In this article, we break down our top 10 picks for the 2024 award and analyze who could claim the crown.
10. Florian Wirtz: The Rising Star of Leverkusen
Florian Wirtz has been pivotal in Bayer Leverkusen’s incredible turnaround, helping the club rise from relegation fears to Bundesliga champions in just two years. With 11 goals and 12 assists in the Bundesliga, Wirtz also showcased his talent at Euro 2024 with some standout performances for Germany. At only 21, he’s just getting started and will likely become a mainstay in future Ballon d’Or races.
9. Kylian Mbappe: The Unstoppable Force
It’s astonishing that Kylian Mbappe still hasn’t won a Ballon d’Or. In 2023-24, he scored 44 goals and provided 10 assists, winning Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, and the Trophee des Champions with Paris Saint-Germain. Mbappe continues to be one of the most electrifying players on the planet, but despite his dominance, he finds himself outside the top three due to fierce competition this year.
8. Phil Foden: City’s Silent Assassin
Phil Foden had a sensational 2023-24 season, racking up 28 goals and 12 assists. With Kevin De Bruyne and Erling Haaland missing parts of the campaign, Foden stepped up to help Manchester City secure their fourth consecutive Premier League title. Despite struggling for England at Euro 2024, Foden’s club performances were enough to earn him a spot in the top 10.
7. Harry Kane: The Perennial Runner-Up
Harry Kane’s story is one of individual brilliance and team disappointment. After winning the European Golden Boot, Kane led the Bundesliga, Champions League, and Euro 2024 scoring charts. Yet, despite his personal accolades, the elusive major team trophies continue to evade him, leaving the England captain still searching for that crowning achievement to go with his outstanding record.
6. Toni Kroos: A Vintage Finale
Toni Kroos may have retired, but he didn’t go quietly. The Real Madrid legend was integral to the club’s La Liga, Supercopa, and Champions League triumphs. Kroos, who even came out of international retirement to play a key role in Germany’s Euro 2024 campaign, reminded the world of his enduring class. His place in football history is secure, and his final season was nothing short of legendary.
5. Lautaro Martinez: Argentina’s Hero
Lautaro Martinez had an unforgettable 2023-24 season, leading Inter Milan to a Serie A title with 35 goals and 8 assists. He also shone on the international stage, scoring the extra-time winner in the Copa America final to help Argentina retain their title. Despite missing a crucial penalty in the Champions League knockout stages, Lautaro’s heroics ensure he finishes high on our list.
4. Dani Carvajal: The Unsung Hero
Dani Carvajal doesn’t always get the spotlight, but his contributions in 2023-24 were immense. With seven goals, eight assists, and 21 clean sheets, the Spanish right-back was crucial in Real Madrid’s success, including another Champions League title and a stunning Euro 2024 run with Spain. Carvajal’s consistency, leadership, and ability to step up in big moments make him one of the most underrated players this season.
3. Jude Bellingham: The Midfield Maestro
Jude Bellingham had a breakout season with Real Madrid, scoring 23 goals and adding 13 assists in his first season at the Bernabeu. His dynamic performances in La Liga were matched by his standout displays for England at Euro 2024, where he scored two crucial goals. Although injuries slowed him down mid-season, Bellingham’s brilliance puts him firmly on the Ballon d’Or podium.
2. Vinicius Jr.: Madrid’s New Star
Vinicius Jr. continues to rise as one of the most electrifying talents in world football. With 26 goals and 12 assists, he was pivotal in Real Madrid’s Champions League, La Liga, and Supercopa de Espana victories. His performances in the Champions League, particularly against Bayern Munich and in the final against Borussia Dortmund, were world-class. Despite a disappointing Copa America for Brazil, Vinicius was nearly unstoppable all season long.
1. Rodri: The Complete Midfielder
Defensive midfielders rarely win the Ballon d’Or, but if anyone can break the trend, it’s Rodri. The Manchester City midfielder was the engine behind City’s treble-winning season, scoring 12 goals and providing 15 assists while dominating games with his tactical intelligence and work rate. Rodri also shone for Spain, winning Euro 2024 and claiming the Player of the Tournament award. In a sport often dominated by flashy attackers, Rodri’s all-around excellence might just earn him the Ballon d’Or.
Conclusion: The Start of a New Era
With Messi and Ronaldo out of the picture, the 2024 Ballon d’Or marks the beginning of a new chapter in football. Players like Wirtz, Bellingham, and Vinicius are the future, while seasoned stars like Kroos and Carvajal are leaving their final marks on the sport. Rodri’s well-rounded brilliance could see him claim the trophy, but with so much talent in the mix, this year’s Ballon d’Or will be one of the most exciting in recent memory.
Who do you think will win? Let us know your picks!
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