Leaked shortlist for 2024 African ballon d’or: Arab star leads the race

A recent report has unveiled the names of the top contenders for the 2024 African Ballon d’Or, revealing a tight competition among three standout players who made a significant impact on European football last season.

The shortlist, according to “RoyalNews,” includes a prominent Arab star and two other talented athletes from Africa.

The three nominees are Moroccan midfielder Brahim Diaz, currently playing for Real Madrid, alongside Nigerian forwards Victor Boniface of Bayer Leverkusen and Ademola Lookman from Atalanta.

Brahim Diaz delivered an exceptional season with Real Madrid, playing a crucial role in helping the team secure multiple trophies, including La Liga, the UEFA Champions League, the Spanish Super Cup, and the UEFA Super Cup.

His performances have earned him widespread acclaim, making him a strong contender for the prestigious award.

Ademola Lookman also had an outstanding season with Atalanta, where he was instrumental in the team’s success, including their Europa League victory.

His consistent and impressive displays led to him being named Atalanta’s Player of the Season.

Victor Boniface, on the other hand, shone brightly for Bayer Leverkusen, guiding the German club to a trio of domestic trophies—Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, and the German Super Cup.

His achievements have established him as one of the brightest Nigerian talents in Europe, further boosting his chances for the African Ballon d’Or.

The winner of the 2024 African Ballon d’Or is set to be announced at a grand ceremony scheduled to take place in Morocco on December 16.

With all three players delivering remarkable performances on the European stage, the competition is expected to be fierce.

Last year’s title was claimed by Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, adding pressure on his compatriots Boniface and Lookman to continue Nigeria’s legacy of success in the competition.

The all-time record for the most African Ballon d’Or wins is held by Cameroonian football legend Samuel Eto’o, who clinched the award four times in 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2010.

As the football world awaits this year’s announcement, fans are eager to see who will emerge as Africa’s best for 2024.