Ballon Dor: In a surprising turn of events leading up to the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony, sources have confirmed that Rodri of Manchester City is poised to claim football’s most coveted individual award. The announcement comes as Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr., who was initially expected to attend the ceremony, has decided not to travel to Paris, signaling that he will not be receiving the award this year.
Vinicius Jr. had a stellar season, playing a crucial role in Real Madrid’s La Liga and Champions League double victory. However, Rodri’s recent achievements with Manchester City, including their fourth consecutive Premier League title and Spain’s triumph in the UEFA Euro 2024, have propelled him to the forefront of the Ballon d’Or race. His performance as a pivotal player for both club and country has garnered significant recognition from analysts and fans alike.
This year’s ceremony marks a historic moment in football, as it is the first time since 2003 that neither Lionel Messi, an eight-time winner, nor Cristiano Ronaldo, with five trophies, will be present among the nominees. The men’s category will see a new winner, ensuring a fresh narrative in football’s rich history.
The 2024 Ballon d’Or will be awarded by a jury of journalists from the top 100 countries in FIFA’s men’s rankings. Predictions have been a hot topic among football experts, with some leaning towards Rodri due to his consistent performances. Others argue for Vinicius Jr., emphasizing his decisive impact in crucial Champions League matches.
As the ceremony approaches, analysts continue to weigh in on the contenders. European football journalist Mina Rzouki advocates for Vinicius Jr. based on his standout performances, while Julien Laurens highlights Rodri’s intelligence and pivotal role in Manchester City’s successes. With opinions split, the anticipation for the award announcement intensifies.
In the women’s category, Aitana Bonmatí, the Barcelona midfielder and World Cup champion, is favored to win again, competing against notable names like Alexia Putellas and Ada Hegerberg. With five players from the U.S. Olympic team also nominated, the women’s award promises to be just as competitive.
As football fans await the final verdict, the Ballon d’Or ceremony will not only celebrate individual brilliance but also mark a significant shift in the sport’s landscape, heralding the emergence of new stars in a post-Messi and Ronaldo era.
