Today, France Football will announce the nominees for the Ballon d’Or 2024. The competition between Vinícius and Rodri is intense.
Other contenders include Jude Bellingham, Dani Carvajal, Lamine Yamal, and Toni Kroos. However, Vinícius and Rodri stand out due to their exceptional achievements and form. It seems the Messi-Ronaldo era has ended; even if Messi wins Copa America 2024, defending his Ballon d’Or title for a record 9th time will be challenging.
The Ballon d’Or is based on performances from the 2023/24 season, from August 1, 2023, to July 31, 2024. 100 journalists will vote to decide the winner, based on criteria such as individual performance, team success, and fair play. These criteria are somewhat vague and could lead to contentious voting.
Nevertheless, the superiority of Rodri and Vinícius is undeniable. Rodri, with a successful season with Man City and Spain, is the most comprehensive candidate. However, the Ballon d’Or has historically favored attacking players. Rodri might face a disadvantage due to his position, while Vinícius has excelled with a double win of La Liga and the Champions League, scoring 24 goals and providing 11 assists.
Vinícius started the 2023/24 season with challenges but exploded with impressive performances later. His stellar achievements and the Best Player in Champions League 2023/24 award highlight him as a leading attacking star.
While Rodri’s talent is remarkable, Vinícius brings a dazzling flair that captivates audiences. The Ballon d’Or not only recognizes the best player but also creates a strong media impact. Therefore, the winner, announced on October 28 in Paris, may not necessarily be the most skilled or successful player.