The prestigious Ballon d’Or remains the pinnacle of individual football accolades, and the race for the 2024 award is heating up. Here’s a look at the current top 10 contenders vying for the coveted trophy.
10) Erling Haaland
Despite scoring an astonishing number of goals and clinching a historic Treble with Manchester City in the 2022-2023 season, Erling Haaland fell short of winning the 2023 Ballon d’Or. This year, his chances appear slim, especially given Norway’s absence from the Euros and Manchester City’s early exit from the Champions League. However, his consistent goal-scoring prowess keeps him in the conversation.
9) Florian Wirtz
Florian Wirtz has been instrumental for Bayer Leverkusen, playing a pivotal role in their title-winning campaign. Should Germany triumph in the upcoming Euros on home soil, Wirtz’s stock could skyrocket, making him a prime candidate for the Ballon d’Or. His creativity and vision on the field have made him one of Europe’s most exciting young talents.
8) Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi’s move to Inter Miami marked a new chapter in his illustrious career. While winning the Copa America with Argentina would add to his legendary status, it might not be sufficient for the Ballon d’Or, considering the lower profile of MLS compared to European leagues. Yet, never count out a player of Messi’s caliber, whose impact transcends statistics.
7) Rodri
Arguably the best player of 2023, Rodri was crucial to Manchester City’s Treble-winning season. His ability to dictate the game from midfield with precision passing and tactical intelligence has been unmatched. However, in a less fruitful year for his club, his chances of clinching the Ballon d’Or have diminished. Nevertheless, his consistent performances keep him in the top 10.
6) Phil Foden
Phil Foden has had a stellar season with Manchester City, showcasing his extraordinary talent and versatility. He is poised to be a key figure in England’s bid for the European Championship. However, the early Champions League exit dents his Ballon d’Or aspirations. Even if England were to win the Euros, it would be a tough ask for Foden to outshine teammates like Kane or Bellingham in the eyes of voters.
5) Harry Kane
No English player has won the Ballon d’Or since Michael Owen in 2001. Harry Kane, arguably the best English player of the last decade, stands as a strong candidate to break that drought. Despite his lack of team trophies, his goal-scoring record and influence on the pitch are undeniable. Winning a major international tournament with England could be the final piece of the puzzle for Kane.
4) Kylian Mbappe
Kylian Mbappe has consistently been among the top players in the world, finishing on the Ballon d’Or podium in 2023 behind Messi and Haaland. To enhance his chances for 2024, Mbappe would need a significant triumph, such as leading France to victory in the Euros. His performances at PSG have been stellar, but European and international success remains crucial.
3) Toni Kroos
The announcement of Toni Kroos’s retirement has added a sentimental boost to his Ballon d’Or odds. A Champions League and European Championship double would be a fitting send-off for one of football’s great midfield maestros. Given his achievements this season and his storied career, a Ballon d’Or win would serve as a well-deserved lifetime achievement award.
2) Jude Bellingham
Jude Bellingham’s move to Real Madrid has been nothing short of spectacular. His early performances made him an early frontrunner for the 2024 Ballon d’Or. However, a few less impactful games, notably against Manchester City and Bayern Munich, have slightly dented his momentum. Still, if he can lead Real Madrid to a Champions League victory and England to Euro glory, he remains a formidable contender.
1) Vinicius Junior
Vinicius Junior’s incredible season with Real Madrid puts him at the top of the current Ballon d’Or power rankings. A Champions League and La Liga double would significantly bolster his candidacy. Additionally, if he can lead Brazil to Copa America success, his position as the frontrunner would be solidified. This could be the year Vinicius steps out of the shadows and firmly establishes himself as one of the world’s elite players.
