2024 Ballon d’Or Shortlist Reveals New Era Without Messi or Ronaldo

The football world witnessed a historic moment today as the 30-man shortlist for the 2024 Ballon d’Or was announced. This marks the first time since 2003 that neither Lionel Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo featured among the nominees. Unveiled during a live stream by L’Equipe, this year’s list signals a new era in football, highlighting a rising generation of talent poised to take center stage.

With Messi and Ronaldo absent for the first time in nearly two decades, the door has opened for a fresh wave of contenders. Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, and Paris Saint-Germain’s Kylian Mbappé are among the favorites, representing a new blend of youth and skill that is captivating the footballing world.

The 2024 nominees showcase a diverse range of talent from around the globe. England’s strong showing includes Harry Kane, Phil Foden, and Declan Rice, reflecting their impressive run to the Euro 2024 final. Spain is also well-represented, with players like Rodri, a key figure in Manchester City’s success, and young sensation Lamine Yamal, who has already made an impact at Barcelona at just 17 years old.

The award ceremony, set for October 28 at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, will introduce new honors alongside the Ballon d’Or. For the first time, trophies for Men’s and Women’s Coach of the Year will be awarded, recognizing the tactical expertise behind team achievements. The Yashin Trophy for the best goalkeeper, the Kopa Trophy for the best young player, and the Gerd Müller Award for the top scorer will also be presented.

Though surprising to many, the exclusion of Messi and Ronaldo reflects the evolving landscape of football. The criteria for the Ballon d’Or, which considers performance, club success, and fair play, have shifted towards recognizing players who excel across these metrics beyond the legacies of the two football icons. This year’s nominees are celebrated for their contributions to both club and country, particularly those who have led their teams to major victories.