The prestigious 2024 Ballon d’Or awards are set to take place this October, and the full list of nominees for 2024 has been officially revealed. This year’s awards include top footballers from around the world competing for individual honors. Here’s a breakdown of the nominees in various categories.
Men’s Ballon d’Or Nominees
The men’s category features some of the world’s best players who have made a mark over the past year. From goal-scorers to playmakers, these athletes have played a pivotal role for their respective clubs and countries.
- Erling Haaland (Manchester City and Norway)
- Haaland’s goal-scoring prowess continues to impress, leading Manchester City to multiple titles in 2023-24.
- Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid and England)
- The young English midfielder has been a standout performer for Real Madrid, showcasing maturity beyond his years.
- Phil Foden (Manchester City and England)
- Foden’s versatility and creativity have been vital for City’s success both domestically and in Europe.
- Ruben Dias (Manchester City and Portugal)
- Dias remains a rock in defense, helping Manchester City achieve their defensive solidity.
- Toni Kroos (Retired)
- Kroos ended his illustrious career on a high, leaving behind a legacy as one of football’s finest midfielders.
- Kylian Mbappé (PSG/Real Madrid and France)
- With blistering pace and clinical finishing, Mbappé remains one of the most dangerous forwards in world football.
- Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona and Poland)
- Lewandowski continues to score goals at an incredible rate, proving his worth at Barcelona.
- Bukayo Saka (Arsenal and England)
- Saka has emerged as a key player for both Arsenal and the England national team with his impressive performances.
- Vinicius Jr (Real Madrid and Brazil)
- Vinicius Jr’s dazzling skills and attacking flair have lit up the Santiago Bernabéu throughout the season.
- Harry Kane (Bayern Munich and England)
- Kane made headlines with his move to Bayern Munich and continues to be one of football’s most prolific scorers.
Women’s Ballon d’Or Nominees
The women’s 2024 Ballon d’Or category showcases the elite talents from various leagues and countries. These players have significantly contributed to the rise of women’s football globally.
- Aitana Bonmatí (Barcelona and Spain)
- Bonmatí’s midfield brilliance helped Barcelona claim another European title.
- Lucy Bronze (Barcelona and England)
- A versatile defender, Bronze is known for her defensive abilities and attacking contributions.
- Alexia Putellas (Barcelona and Spain)
- Putellas continues to be a leader on the field, guiding Barcelona to consistent success in domestic and European competitions.
- Lauren James (Chelsea and England)
- James is a rising star in English football, known for her powerful runs and goal-scoring abilities.
- Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit and USWNT)
- Rodman’s dynamic play and versatility make her a key player for both club and country.
Kopa Trophy (Best U21 Player)
The Kopa Trophy is awarded to the best player under the age of 21. This year’s nominees include some of the brightest young talents in football, with several already making an impact on the global stage.
- Lamine Yamal (Barcelona and Spain)
- Yamal has caught the eye with his technical skills and creativity at such a young age.
- Alejandro Garnacho (Manchester United and Argentina)
- Garnacho has become a fan favorite at Manchester United with his fearless attacking play.
- Arda Güler (Real Madrid and Türkiye)
- Güler’s vision and dribbling ability make him one of the most exciting prospects in world football.
- Warren Zaire-Emery (PSG and France)
- Zaire-Emery’s composure and ability to dictate play from midfield have impressed fans and pundits alike.
Yacine Trophy (Best Goalkeeper)
The Yacine Trophy recognizes the best goalkeeper of the year, and this year’s list includes some of the finest shot-stoppers in the game.
- Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa and Argentina)
- Martinez has cemented his status as one of the best goalkeepers in the world, playing a key role in Argentina’s World Cup triumph.
- Diogo Costa (FC Porto and Portugal)
- Costa’s sharp reflexes and commanding presence in goal have made him a standout in Europe.
- Mike Maignan (AC Milan and France)
- Maignan’s shot-stopping ability and leadership have been crucial for AC Milan’s success.
- Gianluigi Donnarumma (PSG and Italy)
- Donnarumma continues to be a dominant figure between the posts for PSG and the Italian national team.
Best Club Awards
Both the men’s and women’s clubs of the year categories celebrate the most successful teams across domestic and international competitions.
Men’s Club of the Year:
- Manchester City (England)
- After winning the treble in 2023, City’s dominance has been clear.
- Real Madrid (Spain)
- A perennial giant of European football, Madrid continues to be a powerhouse.
Women’s Club of the Year:
- Barcelona (Spain)
- Barcelona’s women’s team remains at the top, having dominated European football in recent seasons.
- Chelsea (England)
- Chelsea’s women’s side continues to build on its success in the WSL and beyond.
Conclusion
The 2024 Ballon d’Or nominations feature an exciting array of talent from across the footballing world. With players representing various positions and roles, the competition for each award will be fierce. The winners will be announced at a gala ceremony in Paris on October 28. Football fans around the globe will be eagerly waiting to see who takes home the prestigious awards. Stay updated with the latest from IPL365.
