Jude Bellingham’s Remarkable Year
Among the frontrunners is Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham, whose stellar performances throughout the year make him a strong contender for the prestigious award. Bellingham has had an exceptional season, contributing significantly to Real Madrid’s successes in La Liga, Super Cup, and the UEFA Champions League. His performances have also been instrumental in helping England reach the Euro 2024 final.
While his statistics are impressive, Bellingham’s individual accolades showcase his significance in world football. Transferring from Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid for €103 million in July 2023, Bellingham quickly established himself as a key midfielder. In La Liga, he made 28 appearances, scored 19 goals, and provided 6 assists, with an average rating of 8.035714. This consistency is evident even in the UEFA Champions League, where he played 11 matches and secured 4 goals along with 5 assists.
The Premier League’s Strong Presence
Joining Bellingham are several Premier League stars who have made the shortlist:
- Erling Haaland: The Manchester City striker had a phenomenal season, breaking records by scoring 36 goals in his debut Premier League season. His impact was critical in City’s Premier League victory and subsequent recognition as the club of the year nominee.
- Phil Foden: A crucial player for Manchester City, Foden’s contributions have been substantial. His 33 appearances in the Premier League saw him net 19 goals and provide 8 assists, earning him the Premier League Player of the Season title in 2024.
- Bukayo Saka: Representing Arsenal, Saka’s exceptional talent and consistent performances have not gone unnoticed. His 35 appearances yielded 16 goals and 8 assists, cementing his status as one of the best young wingers in the world.
- Rodri, Ruben Dias: Manchester City continues its strong representation with these two outstanding players, highlighting the club’s dominance in both domestic and European competitions.
Women’s Award Nominees
The women’s shortlist also brings excitement, featuring top talents like Lauren James, Lauren Hemp, Lucy Bronze, and Khaija Shaw, each of whom has made significant contributions to their respective teams and competitions.
Rising Young Talents
The Kopa Trophy shortlist reflects the future stars of football, with Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho vying for the title alongside Euro 2024 winner Lamine Yamal. Notably, these young talents have demonstrated exceptional skills and maturity beyond their years, hinting at a bright future for both club and country.
The Dawn of a New Era
With Messi and Ronaldo absent from the list for the first time since 2003, the Ballon d’Or is poised to herald a new era of football excellence, celebrating emerging talents and the next generation of football greats. The October 28 ceremony promises to be historic, as the football community anticipates the crowning of new stars who have proven their mettle on both domestic and international stages.
Final Thoughts
As the world gears up for the 2024 Ballon d’Or awards, the excitement built around these nominations is palpable. Jude Bellingham and the Premier League stars lead a pack of players whose performances have not only entertained but have set new benchmarks in football. These players have demonstrated that they are more than capable of picking up the mantle left by legends like Messi and Ronaldo, ensuring that the beautiful game continues to thrive and inspire.
