No Lionel Messi, and no Cristiano Ronaldo. In the men’s category, this Ballon d’Or 2024 is set to be exciting as, for the first time since 2003, neither of these legends, who dominated the prize with a combined 13 titles, will be in contention. This year’s Ballon d’Or will see new faces going for this prestigious award. Currently, Messi holds the record for the most Ballon d’Or titles, with eight in total — his first in 2009, followed by wins in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021, and most recently in 2023. Meanwhile, Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo is close behind with five Ballon d’Or awards. So, who could be the fresh superstar to take the Ballon d’Or home this year? See three possible contenders for the Ballon d’Or 2024.
Who is favoured to win Ballon d’Or in 2024?
Vinicius Junior
This Brazil’s champion is surely grabbing attention now, playing for Real Madrid he is doing wonderful job and not to forget, Vinicius Junior is a key player in their recent successful outing, whether it is La Liga or the Champions League. In his young career with Brazil, he has scored two goals and provided two assists in ten matches. Playing for Los Blancos, he also has 24 goals and nine assists in the pack. Even Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti believes that his winger is going to win this prestigious award.
Jude Bellingham
One more Real Madrid player expected to surprise everyone is this midfielder as Bellingham is also a high-profile candidate for the ballon d’or award. he has an excellent record with Real Madrid, with 23 goals and 13 assists. having made an extraordinary start with this spanish club, he has already secured three trophies from his first Champions League title to Spanish Super cup, and the UEFA Super Cup. with all these things in bag, he is undoubtedly one of the candidates for the Ballon d’Or award.
Rodri
Currently, the nucleus of Manchester City and Spain, Rodri, is enjoying the peak of his career. The numbers certainly indicate that he is one of the best candidates for the Ballon d’Or. In 45 games for the English club, he scored nine goals and provided 12 assists as a midfielder. Even for the national team, in a short span, he has dictated the game on his terms. In 14 matches, he came as one of the architects of the team’s success, contributing 3 goals and 1 assist.
