With the prestigious Ballon d’Or ceremony slated for October this year, the anticipation surrounding the award intensifies as top football talents vie for the coveted accolade.
Among the frontrunners are England’s creative maestro, Jude Bellingham of Real Madrid, alongside Egyptian international Mohamed Salah, Manchester City’s prolific striker Erling Haaland, and Paris Saint-Germain’s French sensation Kylian Mbappé.
Jude Bellingham:
Leading the charge is English sensation Jude Bellingham, whose stellar performances for Real Madrid since his blockbuster transfer from Borussia Dortmund last summer have propelled him to the forefront of contention.
Bellingham has been instrumental, netting 20 goals and providing 8 assists in 29 appearances across various competitions. Real Madrid’s current dominance in La Liga positions them as strong contenders for the title, further bolstering Bellingham’s claim to the Ballon d’Or.
Mohamed Salah:
Liverpool’s Egyptian talisman, Mohamed Salah, remains a formidable contender for the Ballon d’Or despite his absence from the UEFA Champions League.
Salah’s influential role in Liverpool’s Premier League campaign, where they currently top the table, coupled with their recent triumph in the Carabao Cup, enhances his chances.
With 19 goals and 10 assists to his name this season, Salah’s impact on Liverpool’s success cannot be understated.
Kylian Mbappé:
French sensation Kylian Mbappé poses a significant threat in the race for the Ballon d’Or, fueled by his relentless pursuit of glory with Paris Saint-Germain.
Mbappé’s stellar performances, including 32 goals and 7 assists in 32 appearances across all competitions, underline his credentials.
PSG’s strong position in the UEFA Champions League, with one foot in the quarter-finals following their victory over Real Sociedad, provides Mbappé with an ideal platform to stake his claim for the prestigious accolade.
Erling Haaland:
Norwegian prodigy Erling Haaland emerges as a formidable contender, leading the Premier League’s scoring charts with 17 goals for Manchester City.
Haaland’s prolific goal-scoring exploits, coupled with City’s pursuit of domestic and European glory, position him as a frontrunner for the Ballon d’Or.
Should City clinch both league and Champions League titles, Haaland’s chances of claiming the coveted award would be significantly enhanced.
Cristiano Ronaldo:
Legendary Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo, leading Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, remains a dark horse in the race for the Ballon d’Or.
Ronaldo’s remarkable performances could see him emerge as a surprise contender, especially if he shines in the upcoming UEFA Euro 2024 tournament with Portugal.
