For years, the Ballon d’Or was a familiar story – a duel between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, the undisputed kings of the sport. But with both legends now plying their trade outside Europe, the 2024 award promises a thrilling contest with four strong contenders: Vinicius Jr, Rodri, Jude Bellingham and perhaps even a sentimental Messi.
Ballon d’Or 2024: Lionel Messi, Vinicius Jr., Jude Bellingham, or Rodri: Who Deserves The Prestigious Award?
While Messi secured the 2023 Ballon d’Or despite Erling Haalands superior goalscoring record and Manchester City’s treble, Argentina’s World Cup triumph ultimately swayed the vote. Now fresh off another Copa America win with Argentina at 37 Messi remains in the conversation though some might argue there are more deserving candidates.
Vinicius Jr. and Jude Bellingham were the most in the limelight before the summer’s Euro 2024 and Copa America. Both were instrumental in Real Madrid’s La Liga and Champions League dominance and it seemed the Ballon d’Or race would hinge on national team success.
Bellingham racked up 23 goals and 13 assists across all competitions, while Vinicius Jr notched 24 goals and 11 assists. Bellingham found the net twice in England’s Euro run to the final, but Spain ultimately emerged victorious. Vinicius Jr. also bagged a brace in the Copa America, but Brazil’s journey ended in the quarter-finals.
New Frontrunners Emerge
Brazil’s early exit meant Bellingham looked set to edge out his teammate Vinicius Jr for the Ballon d’Or. However, a surprise contender emerged – Rodri. The Manchester City midfielder a key figure in their Premier League win also orchestrated Spain’s Euro triumph.
This year’s Ballon d’Or race has become a fascinating battle between two midfielders, raising a crucial question: who truly deserves the accolade when votes come into play?
Also Read: From Currency To Ritual: The History Of The Olympic Medal Bite
Despite the Copa America victory, Messi’s season at Inter Miami was underwhelming with only one goal and one assist. It’s a far cry from the performances that earned him the Ballon d’Or after carrying Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022.
Bellingham had a stellar season at Real Madrid scoring goals and contributing to major trophies, but could not replicate that form with England. Similarly, Vinicius Jr, while scoring a brace in a single Copa America match was suspended for the quarter-final due to a needless yellow card.
Rodri on the other hand, has been a rock for both club and country. He played a whopping 50 matches for Manchester City contributing nine goals and 14 assists as a central defensive midfielder. He played a vital role for Spain during the Euros even though he missed one game due to suspension. He scored a vital goal for the team.
