For the first time in two decades, neither Lionel Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo will feature on the Ballon d’Or 2024 shortlist. This marks a significant shift in the football world, as the two legends have dominated the award since 2003, winning a combined 12 Ballon d’Or trophies. With both icons left out, a first-time winner is guaranteed, creating anticipation for the new era of football stars.
England’s Stars Lead the Nominations
Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, and Cole Palmer headline the list of six England players nominated for the prestigious men’s award. Bellingham, in particular, has impressed this year. His remarkable debut season at Real Madrid, combined with his contribution to England’s success in reaching the Euro 2024 final, solidifies his place as a top contender.
Meanwhile, Kane, now with Bayern Munich, had a stellar first season with the club, scoring 44 goals across all competitions. Other nominees include Manchester City’s standout players Rodri, Erling Haaland, and Ruben Dias, as well as Arsenal’s dynamic duo, William Saliba and Martin Ødegaard.
New Faces and Rising Stars
Lamine Yamal, the 17-year-old Barcelona sensation, has made history by becoming the youngest player ever to be nominated for the Ballon d’Or. The Spanish teenager was instrumental in his nation’s Euro 2024 victory, making him a standout young talent to watch. His nomination surpasses that of Kylian Mbappé, who was 18 when first nominated, further highlighting Yamal’s exceptional rise in world football.
Beyond Yamal, Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman earned a spot on the 30-man shortlist after helping his club secure Europa League glory with a brilliant hat-trick in the final.
No Messi, No Ronaldo: A New Era Begins
The absence of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo from the Ballon d’Or 2024 nominations is perhaps the most significant headline. Both players have been synonymous with the award for two decades. Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, clinched the title just last year, and Ronaldo, with five titles, has been a constant presence on the shortlist. Their absence marks the end of an era and opens the door for new names to make their mark on the sport’s most prestigious individual accolade.
Karim Benzema and Luka Modric, both previous winners still playing, were also left out of the list this year, indicating a changing of the guard in the football world.
Premier League Dominance
The Premier League continues to show its dominance on the world stage, with several top performers making the shortlist. Manchester City, fresh off another title-winning campaign, has four players nominated: Rodri, Haaland, Dias, and Phil Foden. Arsenal is also well-represented with Ødegaard, Bukayo Saka, and Declan Rice in the mix.
Emiliano Martínez, Aston Villa’s goalkeeper and last year’s Yacine Trophy winner for the best goalkeeper, is once again nominated. Despite stiff competition, his role in Argentina’s Copa América success and Villa’s solid season keeps him in contention.
Ballon d’Or 2024 Favorites
Although it’s early to predict the winner, some frontrunners have emerged. Rodri, the midfield anchor for Manchester City, had an exceptional season, playing a pivotal role in their treble-winning campaign, which includes the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League. His all-around performances make him a serious contender for the Ballon d’Or 2024.
Vinícius Júnior, who has continued to shine for Real Madrid, is another favorite. His speed, skill, and goal-scoring ability have made him one of the most exciting young players in the world. Paired with Erling Haaland, who broke goal-scoring records during his debut season at City, the battle for the award is expected to be fierce.
The Women’s Ballon d’Or 2024: Lionesses Shine
On the women’s side, three players from England’s Lionesses have made the shortlist: Lucy Bronze, Lauren James, and Lauren Hemp. These players have been pivotal to the success of their respective clubs and national team, further showcasing the strength of English football on the global stage.
Lucy Bronze, a veteran defender with Barcelona, had another excellent season, while Lauren James and Lauren Hemp shined at Chelsea and Manchester City, respectively. The trio’s inclusion on the 30-woman shortlist demonstrates their continued dominance in women’s football.
Spain’s Aitana Bonmatí, last year’s winner, is once again in contention, as is her club teammate Alexia Putellas, a two-time winner of the award. Mariona Caldentey, newly signed by Arsenal, is also on the list following an impressive campaign with Barcelona and Spain.
Kopa and Yacine Trophy Nominations
The Kopa Trophy, awarded to the best young player, has also garnered significant attention. Last year’s winner Jude Bellingham is once again nominated, and he faces stiff competition from Lamine Yamal and Savinho, Manchester City’s recent signing. Additionally, Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho of Manchester United have been recognized for their breakout performances.
The Yacine Trophy for the best goalkeeper will see Emiliano Martínez vying to defend his title. However, he will face strong competition from Giorgi Mamardashvili, Valencia’s soon-to-be Liverpool shot-stopper, and other top goalkeepers across Europe.
The Coaches Leading the Way
In the coaching category, Pep Guardiola stands out as a top contender for Men’s Coach of the Year after leading Manchester City to another treble-winning season. Spain’s Luis de la Fuente, who guided his team to Euro 2024 victory, is also in the mix, alongside Xabi Alonso of Bayer Leverkusen and Carlo Ancelotti of Real Madrid.
On the women’s side, Emma Hayes, the new USA women’s team manager, is nominated alongside Sarina Wiegman, who led England to success in recent years, and Sonia Bompastor, Chelsea’s current coach.
Conclusion
The Ballon d’Or 2024 represents a pivotal moment in football history. With no Messi or Ronaldo on the shortlist, the field is wide open for a new champion to emerge. England’s stars are shining bright, and the Premier League continues to dominate the nominations. As we await the ceremony on October 28 in Paris, football fans are eager to see who will claim the top prize and usher in a new era of football greatness.
