Who Will Win the 2024 Ballon d’Or?

Before Euro 2024, the football world was buzzing with the idea that Jude Bellingham might claim the prestigious Ballon d’Or, a prize that has been dominated by Messi and Ronaldo for over a decade. However, after the tournament, the race for the award has become less clear-cut. While Bellingham remains a strong contender, there are four superstars who now have a significant chance of lifting the trophy. Let’s dive deep into their remarkable seasons and achievements and see Who Will Win the 2024 Ballon d’Or?.

Lautaro Martinez (Inter)

2023-24 Stats: 35 goals, 8 assists. Achievements: Copa America, Serie A, Supercoppa Italiana.

Lautaro Martinez’s career has often been overshadowed by criticism of his performances in crucial matches. This narrative seemed destined to continue after his missed penalty led to Inter’s early Champions League exit against Atletico Madrid. However, this was one of the few blemishes in an otherwise stellar season.

Martinez dominated Serie A, driving Inter to a decisive Scudetto victory. On the international stage, he shone brightly, scoring five goals to win the Copa America Golden Boot and netting the extra-time winner in the final. His consistent and high-impact performances have put him firmly in the Ballon d’Or conversation.

Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)

2023-24 Stats: 27 goals, 17 assists. Achievements: Champions League, La Liga, Supercopa de España.

The first half of the 2023-24 season belonged to Jude Bellingham. His seamless transition to Real Madrid, reminiscent of Cristiano Ronaldo’s impact, saw him score critical goals and dominate matches. Despite a mid-season dip due to injuries and suspensions, Bellingham’s late-season heroics reignited his Ballon d’Or bid.

His standout moments included a stellar performance against Manchester City in the Champions League and two stoppage-time winners in El Clasico. Bellingham also played a crucial role for England at Euro 2024, with his last-gasp overhead kick against Slovakia keeping their hopes alive. Although England fell short in the final, Bellingham’s season ensures he remains a top contender for the Ballon d’Or.

Vinicius Jr (Real Madrid)

2023-24 Stats: 26 goals, 12 assists. Achievements: Champions League, La Liga, Supercopa de España.

Vinicius Jr overcame early-season injuries to deliver a remarkable campaign. His hat-trick in the Spanish Super Cup final against Barcelona and consistent goal-scoring form were instrumental in Real Madrid’s La Liga triumph.

Vinicius was particularly outstanding in the Champions League, especially in the semi-final victory over Bayern Munich and the final against Borussia Dortmund, where he scored a pivotal goal. However, his Ballon d’Or bid was hampered by an untimely suspension during Copa America, which saw Brazil exit in the quarter-finals. Despite this, his club performances keep him in the running for the award.

Rodri (Manchester City)

2023-24 Stats: 12 goals, 15 assists. Achievements: Euro 2024, Premier League, Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup.

Rodri’s importance to Manchester City was highlighted by their struggles in his absence. The best defensive midfielder in the world, Rodri’s knack for scoring crucial goals, including the Premier League title-sealer, has earned him widespread acclaim.

His stellar performances for Spain at Euro 2024, culminating in being named Player of the Tournament, further bolster his Ballon d’Or credentials. Despite an injury forcing him off in the Euro final, his contributions throughout the season for both club and country position him as a strong favorite for the prestigious award.