As the football world eagerly anticipates the announcement of the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, the competition is fiercer than ever. This year’s rankings feature a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, each making a compelling case for the prestigious award. Let’s delve into the top contenders and their remarkable performances over the past season.
1. Rodri (Manchester City, Spain) – Midfielder
Rodri has been a linchpin for Manchester City, orchestrating play from the midfield with precision and intelligence. His ability to break up opposition attacks and initiate counter-attacks has been pivotal in City’s domestic and European success. Rodri’s consistency and leadership on the field have earned him widespread acclaim, making him a strong candidate for the Ballon d’Or. Winning the Euro 2024 with Spain as well as the EPL with Man City is one of the key factors making him a favorite.
2. Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid, Brazil) – Forward
Vinicius Junior’s explosive pace and dribbling skills have made him a nightmare for defenders. The Brazilian forward has been in scintillating form, contributing crucial goals and assists for Real Madrid. His performances in the Champions League and La Liga have solidified his reputation as one of the most exciting talents in world football. Having helped the Los Blancos to a La Liga win is a strong statement for the Brazilian.
3. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid, England) – Midfielder
At just 21 years old, Jude Bellingham has already established himself as a key player for both Real Madrid and the England national team. His box-to-box capabilities, vision, and composure under pressure have drawn comparisons to some of the game’s greats. Bellingham’s impact on the pitch has been nothing short of extraordinary, making him a top contender for the award.
4. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona, Spain) – Forward
Lamine Yamal’s breakthrough season with Barcelona has been a revelation. The young forward’s flair, creativity, and goal-scoring prowess have made him a fan favorite. Yamal’s performances have been instrumental in Barcelona’s resurgence, and his potential seems limitless. The story of Euro 2024 turned 17 the day before he lifted the trophy with Spain. Ridiculous. His inclusion in the Ballon d’Or rankings is a testament to his rapid rise in the footballing world.
5. Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid, France) – Forward
Kylian Mbappe continues to be a dominant force in world football, and is regarded by many as the best player in the world. His move to Real Madrid has only enhanced his reputation, as he consistently delivers match-winning performances. Mbappe’s speed, technical ability, and goal-scoring record make him a perennial favorite for the Ballon d’Or. His contributions to both club and country have been invaluable.
6. Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid, Spain) – Defender
Dani Carvajal’s defensive solidity and attacking contributions have been crucial for Real Madrid. The experienced right-back has been a model of consistency, providing stability at the back while also supporting the attack. Carvajal’s leadership and experience have been vital in Real Madrid’s successful campaigns. Winning both European honours with club and country in the same year is a rare feat. Carvajal ought to be a shoo-in for any Team of the Year XIs.
7. Lautaro Martinez (Inter, Argentina) – Forward
Lautaro Martinez has been a standout performer for Inter and the Argentine national team. His goal-scoring ability, work rate, and versatility have made him a key player for both club and country. Martinez’s performances in Serie A and international tournaments have earned him a place among the top contenders for the Ballon d’Or 2024.
8. Harry Kane (Bayern, England) – Forward
The likes of Messi, Cristiano, Benzema and Ronaldo Nazario all followed up the European Golden Shoe with the Ballon d’Or. Kane picked up that particular individual accolade for the first time in his career, but his trophy drought continues following Bayern’s Champions League semi-final defeat to Real Madrid and England’s heartbreaking Euro 2024 defeat to Spain. As well as the Bundesliga Golden Boot, he was the top scorer in the Champions League and at Euro 2024. But he looked off the pace and out of place with a series of strangely stunted performances in Germany. Yet another bittersweet year for England’s all-time top goalscorer.
9. Toni Kroos (Retired, Germany) – Midfielder
Despite retiring, Toni Kroos’s impact on the game remains significant. His performances in the early part of the season and his illustrious career have left a lasting legacy. Kroos’s vision, passing accuracy, and leadership have been celebrated by fans and pundits alike, earning him a spot in the 2024 Ballon d’Or Power Rankings.
10. Erling Haaland (Man City, Norway) – Forward
It was all too easy to forget about Haaland over the summer, given Norway’s failure to qualify for Euro 2024. In our last update of these power rankings, we included Messi in a prominent position, in large part him captaining Argentina to a third successive major tournament and his ongoing iconic status in the game. But we underestimated France Football, who have omitted him entirely and gone for a shortlist entirely comprised of players still playing at the top of their games in the European spotlight. And when it comes to the current generation, Haaland is undoubtedly among the absolute best. The striker’s recent back-to-back Premier League hat-tricks served as a reminder of that.