The stage is set for one of the most prestigious nights in football as the nominations for this year’s Ballon d’Or have been unveiled.
While the list includes many familiar faces, it also features some fresh contenders who could shake up expectations and alter the narrative of this celebrated award.
At the forefront of the nominations is Jude Bellingham, the rising star of Real Madrid. After a stunning year that saw him shine not only at the club level, winning both La Liga and the Champions League, but also leading England to the Euro 2024 final, Bellingham has firmly established himself among the elite. His remarkable blend of skill, maturity, and tenacity has drawn comparisons to football legends, making him a strong contender for this year’s top prize.
Bellingham isn’t alone in representing the Premier League at the Ballon d’Or. Manchester City’s impressive quartet—Ruben Dias, Phil Foden, Erling Haaland, and Rodri—also find themselves on the 30-man shortlist.
The Cityzens are basking in the glory of their fifth consecutive Premier League title and their ongoing dominance in European football. Haaland, in particular, remains a fan favorite and a goal-scoring machine, and his nomination is a testament to his explosive impact since joining the club.
Moreover, in a show of strength, Arsenal also boasts several nominees. Bukayo Saka, the Gunners’ dynamic forward, alongside teammates William Saliba, Declan Rice, and Martin Ødegaard, reflects the club’s resurgence.
Each has played a crucial role in Arsenal’s quest for silverware, exemplifying the potent mix of youth and experience that has defined their season.
In addition, we must not forget Aston Villa’s Emi Martinez, who has been nominated for both the coveted men’s award and the goalkeeper accolade—an impressive feat highlighting his vital role in the team’s recent successes.
The nominations extend beyond the men’s category, illuminating the talents of women in football as well.
Notable nominees for the women’s award include Lauren James, Lauren Hemp, Lucy Bronze, and Khadija Shaw, all of whom have made significant contributions to their respective clubs and on the international stage.
Also capturing attention this year are Manchester United’s young prodigies Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho, who have received nominations for the Kopa Trophy, alongside Euro 2024 winner Lamine Yamal.
Their inclusion indicates a thriving youth culture within the game and suggests that the future of football is in capable hands.
The countdown to the Ballon d’Or has officially begun, and we cannot wait to see how this story unfolds.
Men’s award shortlist in full
Antonio Rudiger – Real Madrid
Kylian Mbappe – Real Madrid
Lautaro Martinez – Inter
Ademola Lookman – Atalanta
Alejandro Grimaldo – Bayer Leverkusen
Dani Carvajal – Real Madrid
William Saliba – Arsenal
Lamine Yamal – Barcelona
Bukayo Saka – Arsenal
Hakan Calhanoglu – Inter
Rodri – Man City
Declan Rice- Arsenal
Harry Kane – Bayern Munich
Cole Palmer – Chelsea
Vitinha – PSG
Vinicius Jr – Real Madrid
Martin Odegaard – Arsenal
Dani Olmo – Barcelona
Florian Wirtz – Bayer Leverkusen
Mats Hummels – Roma
Erling Haaland – Man City
Nicolas Williams – Athletic Bilbao
Granit Xhaka – Bayer Leverkusen
Artem Dovbik – Roma
Toni Kroos – Real Madrid
Jude Bellingham – Real Madrid
Phil Foden – Man City
Ruben Dias – Man City
Federico Valverde – Real Madrid
Emiliano Martinez – Aston VIlla
