The Ballon d’Or 2024, the most prestigious individual award in football, is set to mark a new era as the dominant figures of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo step aside. For over a decade, Messi and Ronaldo held the title, with Messi winning eight times and Ronaldo five. Now, with Messi in the U.S. and Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia, fans are ready to embrace a new face as the world’s top player. The favorite? Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior, although Manchester City’s Rodri also has a strong case. The Ballon d’Or, long celebrated as a forward-dominated accolade, might this year see a shift towards appreciating the influence of midfielders.
As the ceremony approaches, attention focuses on Vinicius, who brought dynamism and creativity to Real Madrid, leading them to triumphs in both La Liga and the Champions League. Rodri, meanwhile, was a key factor in Manchester City’s Premier League success and Spain’s victory at Euro 2024. Despite other remarkable players like Erling Haaland and Jude Bellingham in contention, the contest seems poised to be a close race between Vinicius and Rodri, marking a possible redefinition of what the award represents.
Vinicius Junior: The Electric Forward Favored to Win
Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior has been at the forefront of football’s spotlight this year, with his dazzling performances solidifying his reputation as one of the world’s best forwards. Known for his blistering pace, sharp agility, and impressive scoring ability, Vinicius was a standout in Real Madrid’s La Liga and Champions League campaigns. Alongside English midfielder Jude Bellingham, Vinicius helped Real Madrid secure critical victories, further cementing his position as a top contender for this year’s Ballon d’Or.
Many believe Vinicius deserves to win because he embodies what fans expect from an electrifying forward: the ability to score, create, and entertain. His hat-trick against top Champions League competitors showcased his skill under pressure, making him a fan favorite. For Real Madrid supporters and football enthusiasts alike, Vinicius represents the next generation of superstars capable of carrying the legacy of the Ballon d’Or into a new era.
Rodri: The Unsung Hero Ready for Recognition
While Vinicius dazzles, Manchester City’s Rodri has been the quiet architect of his team’s success. As a defensive midfielder, Rodri may not attract the same flair-driven attention as forwards, yet his contributions are undeniable. Anchoring Manchester City’s midfield, he has been instrumental in their Premier League dominance, dictating the tempo and ensuring balance. Rodri’s influence extended to the international stage as well, where he played a pivotal role in Spain’s Euro 2024 victory, earning the Player of the Tournament title before an unfortunate injury in the final.
Rodri’s selection as a top-three Ballon d’Or contender marks a possible shift in how the award values players. Traditionally dominated by forwards and goal-scorers, the award rarely honors midfielders or defensive players. Yet Rodri’s impact, both for Manchester City and Spain, has led many, including prominent sportswriters, to place him ahead of forwards like Erling Haaland. Should he win, it would symbolize recognition of the tactical and often-overlooked contributions of defensive midfielders.
Erling Haaland: The Goal-Scoring Machine with a Slim Chance
Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, known for his goal-scoring prowess, completes the Ballon d’Or’s likely top three. Haaland’s extraordinary debut season in the Premier League saw him score a record-breaking number of goals, making him one of the most prolific strikers of the year. His distinctive style and towering presence have added a unique edge to City’s front line, allowing him to net crucial goals and contribute significantly to the club’s success domestically and in Europe.
Despite his achievements, Haaland’s chances for the Ballon d’Or may be hampered by Norway’s lack of international success. Unlike his competitors, Haaland missed out on Euro 2024, diminishing his visibility on the global stage. However, his unforgettable moments on the field, including a stunning backheel volley in the Champions League, have earned him a well-deserved place among the world’s best. Haaland’s placement in the top three underscores his importance to City and affirms his status as a leading goal-scorer, even if the Ballon d’Or remains elusive this year.
Predictions For The Ballon d’Or: A Close Race Between Flair and Consistency
As Monday night’s Ballon d’Or ceremony approaches, predictions vary among experts. Opitanglobamedia Football writers lean towards Vinicius Junior for his flashy performances and consistent goal contributions, though some favor Rodri, highlighting the increasing recognition of midfielders who often control the game’s rhythm. Sunday Alabi , for instance, champions Vinicius as the most thrilling player, while Moyowa Bolaji and Frank Philip recognize Rodri’s essential contributions to City and Spain’s recent achievements.
In the end, this year’s Ballon d’Or may hinge on whether voters prioritize the flair and excitement typical of past winners or embrace a broader definition of “the best.” Vinicius might emerge as the popular choice, but should Rodri claim the award, it would signal a profound shift in football’s most coveted individual prize—one that values consistency and strategic impact as much as goal-scoring prowess.
