As the 2024 Ballon d’Or approaches, the football world is buzzing with anticipation. For the first time in over two decades, neither Lionel Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo feature on the shortlist, meaning a first-time winner will be crowned in the men’s category. With past winners like Karim Benzema and Luka Modric also omitted, the stage is set for a new football star to take home the prestigious award.
On the women’s side, Aitana Bonmati is a strong favorite to win the Ballon d’Or Féminin for the second consecutive year after her outstanding performances for both Barcelona and Spain, culminating in a World Cup triumph. The results will be announced on Monday in Paris, but pundits are already weighing in on who they believe will come out on top.
Who Will Win the Men’s Ballon d’Or?
This year’s men’s Ballon d’Or sees a number of standout performers from Europe’s top clubs vying for the crown. Let’s take a look at the favorites and the experts’ predictions.
Rodri (Manchester City and Spain)
Rodri’s name is high on the list after a stellar season with Manchester City. The midfield maestro played an instrumental role in City’s historic treble, which included winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League. Rodri also helped Spain lift the European Championship trophy, adding further weight to his claim.
French football journalist Julien Laurens is in Rodri’s corner, stating, “Rodri has been the best player in the world for two seasons now. He is the most intelligent player in his position, decisive for both club and country.” Laurens argues that Rodri’s influence, though not always highlighted by goal-scoring or flashy skills, is central to Manchester City’s and Spain’s success. “He deserves the Ballon d’Or more than anyone else.”
However, some experts believe Rodri’s more understated role could work against him. As Spanish football expert Guillem Balague pointed out, “It’s a great opportunity to give the award to an unsung hero, but people tend to favor players who look good on the ball and dominate the highlight reels.”
Erling Haaland (Manchester City and Norway)
Erling Haaland’s first season at Manchester City was nothing short of historic. The Norwegian striker shattered the Premier League’s single-season goal-scoring record, netting 36 goals in just 35 appearances. His goal-scoring exploits were critical to City’s treble-winning campaign, and many see Haaland as a top contender for the award.
Despite Haaland’s incredible numbers, some pundits believe his performances in the Champions League knockout rounds were overshadowed by other players, like his teammate Rodri. Haaland is likely to be in the mix, but whether his goal-scoring alone will be enough to clinch the Ballon d’Or remains to be seen.
They’re all here! But tonight, one name will shine even more
Who should it be? #ballondor pic.twitter.com/EBCiRVhYy4
— Ballon d’Or (@ballondor) October 28, 2024
Vinicius Jr. (Real Madrid and Brazil)
Vinicius Jr. had a phenomenal season with Real Madrid, continuing to build on his reputation as one of the most electrifying attackers in world football. The Brazilian winger was pivotal in helping Real Madrid win the La Liga-Champions League double, scoring crucial goals and providing key assists throughout the campaign.
European football journalist Mina Rzouki argues that Vinicius should win the award. “Vinicius Jr. made a difference in every important match in the Champions League. He was the difference-maker. Rodri was just part of a great team, but Vinicius was the standout player for Real Madrid.”
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Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid and England)
Jude Bellingham’s meteoric rise has made him a favorite among many football pundits. After a successful stint at Borussia Dortmund, Bellingham’s move to Real Madrid has further elevated his status. His dynamic performances for both club and country have put him in the spotlight as one of football’s brightest young talents.
Kristof Terreur, a Belgium football expert, expressed his excitement for the new generation of football stars. “It’s the end of the Messi-Ronaldo era, and Bellingham, along with Vinicius and Haaland, are the future. While I lean toward Vinicius, Bellingham will be a strong contender.”
Who Will Win the Women’s Ballon d’Or?
In the women’s category, several world-class players are in contention, but most experts agree that Aitana Bonmati is the clear favorite.
Aitana Bonmati (Barcelona and Spain)
Aitana Bonmati’s name has become synonymous with excellence in women’s football. After winning the 2023 Ballon d’Or Féminin, Bonmati went on to lead Spain to their first-ever Women’s World Cup victory. Her performances in midfield for both Barcelona and Spain have been nothing short of extraordinary, making her the frontrunner for the award.
Spanish football expert Guillem Balague praised Bonmati, saying, “She controls the game, has goals, assists, personality, and represents the new dimension that women’s football has reached. She is a reference for kids and a true leader on the field.”
Former England midfielder Fara Williams echoed this sentiment: “Bonmati’s game understanding is at the very top. She controls the midfield for Barcelona, adding goals and assists—key attributes for any midfielder aiming for greatness.”
Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit and United States)
Trinity Rodman, daughter of NBA legend Dennis Rodman, has made a name for herself in football. With blistering pace and technical ability, Rodman was a standout performer for the United States at the Olympics and continued to shine in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).
Jen Beattie, a Bay FC defender, believes Rodman deserves the Ballon d’Or. “What she did at the Olympics was incredible. She’s the perfect combination of speed and technical ability, and she’s delivered at every level for club and country.”
Other Contenders: Lindsey Horan and Barbra Banda
Lindsey Horan and Barbra Banda have also been mentioned as possible contenders for the award. Horan’s leadership and creativity in the midfield have been vital for both the US Women’s National Team and her club. Meanwhile, Zambia’s Barbra Banda turned heads at the Olympics, becoming the first woman to score back-to-back hat-tricks in the tournament.
