As Various footballing leagues are in the mix and are in the thick of action, various players are already showing signs of being Contenders to win the highly rated France football Ballon d’Or.
Over the years, a number of footballing greats have won the highly regarded award with legend Lionel Messi, winning the award eight times, the most in footballing history, closely followed by Cristiano Ronaldo who has won it five times.
Widely regarded as the pinnacle of individual achievement, the award, voted on by journalists, coaches, and club and country captains,the Ballon d’Or has often been labeled a “popularity contest.”
With a plethora of competitions in 2024, including the Afcon, Copa America, and the European Championship, coupled with stellar club performances, several players have emerged as front-runner
We take a look at players who are most likely to win the next Ballon d’or and take over the mantle from the current holder Lionel Messi, who has won it eight different times.
Jude Bellingham: The young sensation who made an €100m move to Real Madrid at the age of 19, has been a beacon of brilliance under Carlo Ancelotti’s stewardship. His very important role in Madrid’s campaign, coupled with an impressive goal tally, positions him as a strong contender. Bellingham’s potential representation of England in the Euros further enhances his Ballon d’Or prospects.
Harry Kane: In a surprising twist, Harry Kane’s move to the Bundesliga has proven to be an excellent move so far , making him the leading goal-scorer for Bayern Munich and a huge candidate to win the Ballon d’or. With 25 goals and 8 assists, the all time highest goalscorer for the English national team’s impact on Bayern’s pursuit of Bundesliga and UEFA Champions League glory puts him firmly in the Ballon d’Or conversation. His participation in the Euros 2024, a competition in which the Three Lions are one of the major favorites to win the competition, adds another layer to his candidacy.
Kylian Mbappe:The French Superstar , continues to dazzle with his performances for PSG. Leading the Ligue 1 goal-scoring charts and eyeing a Champions League triumph, Mbappe’s credentials for the Ballon d’Or are compelling. As the talisman for both club and country, his leadership in France’s quest for Euro glory further solidifies his candidacy.
Mohamed Salah: Arguably the most important figure for Liverpool, Salah has propelled the Reds to the summit of the Premier League. With 14 goals to his name, Salah’s influence and goal-scoring prowess make him a formidable contender for the Ballon d’Or. Currently representing Egypt in the African Cup of Nations, his international exploits could further boost his chances.
Erling Haaland: The Norwegian sensation, remains a force to be reckoned with. Despite Norway’s Euro qualification setback, Haaland’s impact at Manchester City, where he lifted the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League, has been nothing short of remarkable.
The striker, narrowly missing out on the last Ballon d’Or to Lionel Messi, is eager to stake his claim this year, and will be Eyeing another successful goal-scoring season, together with a number of trophies, the 23 years old Striker can also stake his claims for the Ballon d’or.
While other players harbor legitimate hopes of clinching the Ballon d’Or, the world eagerly awaits the revelation of who will be the next winner and take over the reigns of power from Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo and also crest his name in the most important individual award in world football.