Table of Contents
The 2024 Ballon d’Or race is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. With Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi no longer dominating the conversation, the field is wide open, with several young superstars vying for the prestigious award.
Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, and Rodri are among the favorites, but many believe that one name is being overlooked—Erling Haaland.
Could the Norwegian goal machine pull off a surprise and take home the Ballon d’Or?
Vinicius Junior: The Brazilian Phenom
Vinicius Junior has had an incredible season at Real Madrid, becoming a key player for the club. He was instrumental in their Champions League victory, contributing 26 goals and 12 assists in all competitions. Vinicius has drawn comparisons to Brazilian legends like Kaka and Ronaldinho, and winning the Ballon d’Or would place him among the greats of Brazilian football.
“To be able to compete for the Ballon d’Or and to win an award that Ronaldo and Ronaldinho won would be something incredible,” Vinicius said, reflecting on his ambition to bring the trophy back to Brazil for the first time since 2007.
Jude Bellingham: The English Superstar
Jude Bellingham has taken the football world by storm. In his debut season at Real Madrid, the 21-year-old midfielder scored 23 goals and helped the club win La Liga, the Champions League, and the Supercopa de España. Bellingham’s combination of strength, skill, and intelligence has made him one of the top contenders for the Ballon d’Or, though he remains humble about his chances.
“I know I can entertain the crowd, but no one can do it like Vini,” Bellingham admitted, suggesting that his teammate Vinicius might be the true star of the show.
Rodri: The Underrated Maestro
Rodri’s season was nothing short of spectacular. The Manchester City midfielder won both the Premier League and Euro 2024 with Spain. His impact on both his club and country cannot be overstated. Despite playing in a less flashy position as a holding midfielder, Rodri’s contribution to City’s success is undeniable.
“Spanish football deserves a Ballon d’Or winner,” Rodri said after Spain’s triumph in Euro 2024. His coach, Pep Guardiola, has also backed him for the award: “Rodri has done not just one season, many seasons really good. He deserves it.”
Kylian Mbappe: The Global Superstar
While Kylian Mbappe may not be the frontrunner this year, he’s still very much in the conversation. Mbappe had a stellar season with Paris Saint-Germain before his move to Real Madrid, scoring 52 goals. His ability to dominate games with his pace and precision is unmatched, making him a perennial Ballon d’Or contender.
“I always aim to be the best, and winning the Ballon d’Or is part of that journey,” Mbappe once said, and while this may not be his year, his ambition and talent keep him in the race.
Erling Haaland: The Missing Contender
Erling Haaland had one of the most remarkable seasons in recent football history, scoring a staggering 52 goals for Manchester City. He broke multiple records in the Premier League and the Champions League, becoming the league’s top scorer and leading City to the Premier League title.
Despite these incredible achievements, Haaland isn’t seen as a favorite for the Ballon d’Or, which has baffled many fans and pundits.
“It can only be Haaland,” said Alan Shearer, speaking on the Rest is Football podcast alongside Gary Lineker and Micah Richards. Lineker echoed Shearer’s sentiment, saying, “Rodri has been excellent, but Haaland’s goal-scoring record was unreal.”
Haaland’s goal-scoring ability is his greatest asset, but it’s not just the quantity of goals—it’s the timing and importance of them. His hat-tricks, match-winning performances, and consistency make him a worthy candidate for the award.
Despite being missing from the top of the odds list, Haaland has arguably done more than anyone to deserve the Ballon d’Or this year.
Why Haaland Should Win the Ballon d’Or
Erling Haaland’s 52 goals in one season are unmatched. He broke Premier League and Champions League records, leading Manchester City to another title. Without Haaland’s clinical finishing, City’s dominance wouldn’t have been as pronounced. While Vinicius, Bellingham, and Rodri have had incredible seasons, Haaland’s impact has been monumental.
“Haaland’s goal-scoring record last season was unreal. He should be a top contender for the Ballon d’Or,” pundits have stated, rallying behind the Norwegian striker.
Who Will Take Home the Ballon d’Or?
The 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony on October 28 is set to be a spectacle, with Vinicius, Bellingham, and Rodri leading the charge. However, the conversation around Erling Haaland cannot be ignored. While he may not be the favorite, his record-breaking season and immense contribution to Manchester City make him a serious contender.
As the football world prepares to crown its next king, the possibility of Haaland winning the Ballon d’Or looms large. His goal-scoring prowess has left an indelible mark on the sport, and now it’s time for him to receive the recognition he truly deserves.
