Top 10 Contenders for the Ballon d’Or 2024
The Ballon d’Or 2024 is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling football awards in recent memory. With so many incredible players delivering jaw-dropping performances, the race for this prestigious trophy is tighter than ever. Let’s dive into the top 10 contenders who’ve been lighting up the pitch with their skill, passion, and sheer brilliance.
1. Lionel Messi
What can you say about Lionel Messi that hasn’t already been said? Even as he edges closer to the later stages of his career, Messi continues to defy expectations. His vision, dribbling, and knack for scoring crucial goals are as sharp as ever. Whether he’s orchestrating play or delivering a moment of magic, Messi remains a frontrunner for the Ballon d’Or. After all, greatness doesn’t retire—it just evolves.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo
Love him or hate him, Cristiano Ronaldo is a force of nature. His relentless drive, physical dominance, and ability to deliver in clutch moments keep him in the conversation year after year. Even as younger stars rise, Ronaldo’s consistency and leadership make him a perennial contender. Could 2024 be the year he adds another Ballon d’Or to his already overflowing trophy cabinet?
3. Kylian Mbappé
Kylian Mbappé isn’t just the future of football—he’s the present. With his lightning speed, clinical finishing, and ability to turn games on their head, Mbappé has become a nightmare for defenders. At just 25, he’s already a World Cup winner and a key figure for both club and country. If he keeps this up, it’s only a matter of time before he claims his first Ballon d’Or.
4. Robert Lewandowski
Robert Lewandowski is the definition of a goal machine. Whether he’s playing in the Bundesliga, La Liga, or on the international stage, Lewandowski’s ability to find the back of the net is unmatched. His positioning, composure, and work ethic make him a constant threat. After narrowly missing out in previous years, could 2024 finally be his year?
5. Kevin De Bruyne
If football were an orchestra, Kevin De Bruyne would be the conductor. His passing range, vision, and ability to control the tempo of a game are second to none. Whether he’s threading a perfect through ball or unleashing a thunderous strike, De Bruyne is the heartbeat of his team. In a sport often dominated by goal-scorers, his midfield mastery deserves recognition.
6. Mohamed Salah
Mohamed Salah has been a revelation since joining Liverpool, and he shows no signs of slowing down. His blistering pace, quick feet, and eye for goal have made him one of the most feared forwards in the world. Whether he’s cutting inside to curl one into the top corner or setting up a teammate, Salah’s impact is undeniable. Could this be the year he finally claims the Ballon d’Or?
7. Erling Haaland
Erling Haaland is a phenomenon. At just 23, he’s already one of the most prolific strikers in the game. His combination of raw power, speed, and finishing ability is almost unfair. Whether he’s playing for Manchester City or Norway, Haaland has a habit of making the impossible look easy. If he keeps breaking records, the Ballon d’Or might just be his to lose.
8. Karim Benzema
Karim Benzema has been a revelation in recent years. After years of being underrated, he’s finally getting the recognition he deserves. His intelligence, movement, and ability to score in big moments have made him a key player for Real Madrid and France. With a Ballon d’Or already under his belt, could 2024 see him add another?
9. Neymar Jr.
Neymar Jr. is the magician of modern football. His flair, creativity, and ability to pull off the unexpected make him a joy to watch. While injuries have occasionally hampered his progress, there’s no denying his talent when he’s on form. If he can stay fit and deliver consistently, Neymar could be a dark horse in this year’s Ballon d’Or race.
10. Luka Modrić
At 38, Luka Modrić is still one of the best midfielders in the world. His intelligence, passing, and ability to control the game are as sharp as ever. Modrić has already defied age to win the Ballon d’Or once—could he do it again? If anyone can, it’s him.
This year’s Ballon d’Or race is a fascinating mix of legends and rising stars. Messi and Ronaldo continue to defy time, while players like Mbappé and Haaland represent the next generation. Each contender brings something unique to the table, making this one of the most unpredictable awards in years. As the football world waits with bated breath, one thing’s for sure: the winner will have truly earned their place among the greats.
