The Ballon d’Or 2024 has once again sparked intense debates and emotions among football enthusiasts, as Rodri of Manchester City claimed the prestigious accolade. The Spanish midfielder edged out Real Madrid’s Vinícius Jr, who finished second, while Barcelona’s Raphinha secured a surprising third-place finish.

However, the ceremony was overshadowed by Real Madrid’s boycott in protest against what they perceived as the unfair exclusion of their Brazilian superstar.

Rodri’s triumph comes after a stellar season with Manchester City, where his pivotal role in midfield contributed to the team’s domestic and European dominance. Yet, the midfielder will not be defending his title next year due to a knee injury suffered in September, effectively sidelining him for the rest of the season. This development sets the stage for a new race to football’s most coveted individual honor.

Unlike the previous two campaigns, the 2024-25 season lacks a major international tournament, meaning that the Ballon d’Or will hinge solely on club performances. The newly revamped Club World Cup could add an intriguing layer to the competition, potentially elevating players who excel in this global stage. This shift broadens the field, allowing stars who might not shine as brightly for their national teams to contend.

A Detailed Look at the Rankings

The full ranking reveals some surprises, particularly with young talents and established stars jockeying for position. Among the highlights:

• 15th place: Viktor Gyökeres (Sporting CP) earned recognition for his consistency in Portugal.
• 14th place: Bukayo Saka (Arsenal) continues to impress with his performances in the Premier League.
• 13th place: Antoine Griezmann (Atletico Madrid) remains a crucial figure for his club.
• 12th place: Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid) had an electrifying start to the season but fell short in the final rankings.
• 11th place: Erling Haaland (Manchester City), despite his goal-scoring prowess, finds himself outside the top 10.

The top 10 features both established legends and emerging superstars. Florian Wirtz (10th) and Cole Palmer (9th) represent a new generation making their mark on the European stage. Harry Kane (8th) and Kylian Mbappé (7th) maintain their status as global icons. Barcelona dominates the list with Lamine Yamal (6th), Robert Lewandowski (5th), and Raphinha (3rd) showcasing the club’s resurgence under their current management.

A Tight Contest for the Top Spots

Vinícius Jr’s second-place finish underscores his phenomenal contributions to Real Madrid this season. The Brazilian winger dazzled with his pace, creativity, and clinical finishing, yet fell just short of claiming the ultimate prize. Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, however, rose above the competition to secure the top spot. His performances have been nothing short of extraordinary, combining relentless consistency with moments of brilliance to lead the Reds.

Salah’s achievement reflects his enduring impact in the Premier League and Europe, marking him as one of the greatest players of his generation. His victory also highlights Liverpool’s resurgence under Jürgen Klopp’s long-term successor, signaling a new era for the club.

Looking Ahead to 2025

With Rodri out of contention, the 2025 Ballon d’Or race promises to be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory. Players like Vinícius Jr, Mbappé, and Salah are likely to remain frontrunners, while young stars such as Lamine Yamal and Florian Wirtz could break new ground. The expanded Club World Cup provides an additional platform for these players to shine, potentially shaping the final outcome.

The rankings also underline a shift in the football landscape, with a blend of youth and experience defining the current era. Veterans like Lewandowski and Griezmann continue to leave their mark, while prodigies like Yamal herald a bright future for the sport.

Barcelona’s Resurgence

Barcelona’s strong representation in the rankings is a testament to the club’s revival in recent seasons. The rise of Yamal and Raphinha, coupled with Lewandowski’s continued excellence, highlights the successful integration of youth and experience. As the Catalan giants aim to reclaim their dominance in both La Liga and Europe, these players will undoubtedly play pivotal roles.

Real Madrid’s Protest

Real Madrid’s decision to boycott the Ballon d’Or ceremony underscores the club’s dissatisfaction with the process. The exclusion of key players from the shortlist, combined with Vinícius Jr’s second-place finish, has fueled criticism from fans and pundits alike. The club’s stance reflects broader concerns about the transparency and fairness of football’s most prestigious awards.

Conclusion

As the dust settles on the 2024 Ballon d’Or, the football world turns its attention to the upcoming season. With no clear favorite and a host of potential contenders, the race for the 2025 edition promises to be as thrilling as ever. Whether it’s through club performances, individual brilliance, or standout moments in the Club World Cup, the next Ballon d’Or winner will have to navigate a highly competitive field.

For now, Mohamed Salah stands atop the footballing world, a symbol of excellence and inspiration for players and fans alike. The journey to 2025 begins now, and it promises to be a spectacle to remember.