Top 10 Ballon d’Or Nominees

Based on the information gathered from various sources up to September 4, 2024, here’s a compilation of who might be considered among the top nominees for the Ballon d’Or in 2024:

1. Rodri – Often highlighted for his pivotal role in Manchester City’s successes and Spain’s Euro 2024 victory, his influence from midfield has been widely recognized.
2. Vinicius Jr. – His performances, especially in the Champions League and for Real Madrid, alongside his impact on Brazil’s team, make him a strong contender.
3. Jude Bellingham – His rise has been meteoric, with significant contributions to Real Madrid’s triumphs and England’s campaign in Euro 2024.
4. Kylian Mbappé – Despite not always being the top scorer, his overall impact, especially in big games, keeps him in contention.
5. Lautaro Martínez – His goal-scoring form for Inter and Argentina, particularly in the Copa America, has been notable.
6. Phil Foden – His performances for Manchester City and England, especially in crucial matches, have earned him recognition.
7. Toni Kroos – Although retiring, his influence on Real Madrid’s season and his experience might still place him in discussions.
8. Harry Kane – His consistent goal-scoring record, especially if Bayern Munich had a successful season, keeps him relevant.
9. Dani Carvajal – An unexpected entry due to his contributions in both club and country’s championship wins.
10. Florian Wirtz – His emergence as a young talent with Bayer Leverkusen and potentially Germany could see him in the mix.

These names reflect a combination of individual brilliance, team success, and the impact on international football, which are key criteria for the Ballon d’Or. However, the final list of nominees and the eventual winner can differ based on various factors, including the timing of the award (considering performances up to a specific date), public sentiment, and the voting panel’s preferences. Remember, this list is based on sentiments and performances up to early September 2024, and actual nominations might slightly differ due to late-season performances or unforeseen events.