Vinicius Jr. and Haaland Headline 2024 Ballon d’Or Nominees

The 2024 Ballon d’Or nominees have been revealed, showcasing a strong representation from top clubs in England and Spain. Brazilian star Vinicius Junior is among the leading contenders following a stellar season with Real Madrid, where he played a key role in their La Liga and Champions League triumphs.

He is joined on the list by five of his Real Madrid teammates: rising English sensation Jude Bellingham, Dani Carvajal, Toni Kroos, Antonio Rudiger, and Fede Valverde. Kylian Mbappe, who recently made the high-profile switch from Paris Saint-Germain to Real Madrid, is also considered a top candidate.

Spain’s success in Euro 2024 is reflected in the nominations, with key players like Dani Olmo, Rodri, Nico Williams, Lamine Yamal, and Alejandro Grimaldo making the cut. Manchester City’s goal machine Erling Haaland and Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane also earned spots on the prestigious list. Noticeably absent this year is five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo, who at 39, did not secure a nomination.

In the coaching category, Xabi Alonso, after leading Bayer Leverkusen through an unbeaten Bundesliga season, emerges as a strong contender. He will be competing against Real Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti and Spain’s national team coach, Luis de la Fuente.

On the women’s side, Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmati is looking to defend her Ballon d’Or title. Other notable names include previous winners Ada Hegerberg and Alexia Putellas. Additionally, five members of the U.S. Olympic gold medal-winning squad—Sophia Smith, Mallory Swanson, Trinity Rodman, Lindsey Horan, and Alyssa Naeher—are also in the running.

The winners of the Ballon d’Or awards will be announced at a ceremony in Paris on October 28, 2024.