Changing of the Guard
The absence of Messi and Ronaldo is not the only significant change this year. Luka Modrić and Karim Benzema, the only two players to break Messi and Ronaldo’s winning streak since 2007, are also missing from the 2024 nominations. Modrić and Benzema’s wins, in 2018 and 2022 respectively, were remarkable achievements that gave brief respites to the Messi-Ronaldo dominance. But with these veteran players now off the nomination list, the stage is set for the next generation to take center stage.
With these stars moving into different phases of their careers, this year’s Ballon d'Or nominations include a fresh wave of talent. Football fans around the world are looking forward to seeing a new winner, one who may potentially define the next decade of football.
Ballon d'Or 2024: The New Contenders
As the football landscape evolves, so does the list of Ballon d'Or contenders. Young, talented players who have dominated the recent seasons now stand a chance to win the most coveted award. Let’s look at some of the leading candidates who could make history at the Ballon d'Or 2024 ceremony.
Erling Haaland
Norwegian striker Erling Haaland has had a meteoric rise over the past few seasons. Known for his goal-scoring prowess, Haaland has been a sensation in the Premier League, breaking records with his incredible tally of goals for Manchester City. His athleticism, speed, and finishing skills make him one of the most complete forwards of his generation. Haaland’s contributions were instrumental in Manchester City’s treble-winning season, and many believe he has what it takes to be the next Ballon d'Or winner.
Kylian Mbappé
French superstar Kylian Mbappé has been a Ballon d'Or contender for years, but with Messi and Ronaldo out of the race, his chances have only improved. Known for his speed, skill, and incredible ability to perform under pressure, Mbappé has consistently delivered for both Paris Saint-Germain and the French national team. At just 25 years old, he has already achieved what many players can only dream of and seems destined to claim his place among the legends of the game. If Mbappé wins, it will be a deserved recognition for his continuous excellence on the field.
Jude Bellingham
Jude Bellingham, at just 21, has taken the football world by storm with his impressive midfield skills. Bellingham's transition to Real Madrid was seamless, and he quickly became a key figure in their lineup, scoring vital goals and creating numerous opportunities. His vision, control, and composure have earned him widespread acclaim, with some hailing him as the future of English football. Although young, Bellingham’s remarkable performances for both club and country make him a strong contender for this year’s Ballon d'Or.
Other Contenders
Aside from Haaland, Mbappé, and Bellingham, other names like VinÃcius Júnior, Mohamed Salah, and Robert Lewandowski have made significant impacts in their respective leagues and could surprise at the Ballon d'Or 2024. VinÃcius has been crucial to Real Madrid’s success, and Salah’s consistency in the Premier League has made him a beloved figure. Lewandowski, though older, continues to deliver incredible performances and remains one of the best strikers in the world.
Ballon d'Or Ceremony 2024: Date and Venue
The Ballon d'Or ceremony will take place in Paris, France, at the Théâtre du Châtelet. This grand event, which has become an annual celebration of football excellence, is scheduled for the end of October 2024. Football fans worldwide are eagerly waiting for the live broadcast to witness who will take home the trophy and mark the beginning of a new era in football.
The Théâtre du Châtelet has hosted the Ballon d'Or awards for several years, and the venue adds a layer of sophistication to the event. Built in the mid-1800s, the theater is a historical landmark in Paris and serves as a fitting backdrop for an occasion as prestigious as the Ballon d'Or. The ceremony will feature not only the presentation of the Ballon d'Or but also awards for the Ballon d'Or Féminin, the Kopa Trophy for the best young player, and the Yashin Trophy for the best goalkeeper.
How to Watch Ballon d'Or 2024 Live
Fans can catch the Ballon d'Or 2024 ceremony live through various streaming platforms and television networks. In recent years, the event has been available on major sports networks and streamed online through platforms like YouTube, ensuring fans worldwide can witness this iconic moment. Social media will also provide live updates, highlights, and instant reactions, making it easy for fans to stay connected to every detail.
To follow the action, fans can tune in to sports channels or access streaming services offering live coverage of the event. For those who cannot watch it live, there will be extensive highlights and post-ceremony analysis available on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and sports websites.
The Enduring Significance of the Ballon d'Or
The Ballon d'Or remains one of football’s highest honors, symbolizing individual excellence in a sport built on teamwork and collective effort. With the absence of Messi, Ronaldo, Modrić, and Benzema, the Ballon d'Or 2024 is truly a passing of the torch to the next generation. This year’s ceremony doesn’t just celebrate individual achievements—it symbolizes a new chapter in football, where emerging stars will strive to create their own legacies.
Fans around the world will tune in not only to see who wins but to witness the beginning of a new era, where players like Haaland, Mbappé, and Bellingham step into the spotlight. As we prepare to celebrate football’s finest, the Ballon d'Or 2024 promises to be a landmark event that will pave the way for the sport’s future icons.
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