Lionel Messi’s record-extending eighth Ballon d’Or success came as a surprise to absolutely nobody in the footballing world.
The legendary Argentine had led his country to the 2022 World Cup after all, where he arguably cemented his place as the greatest footballer to have ever played the game.
Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe were his nearest challengers in 2023, both enjoying exceptional years of their own. Haaland scored 54 goals in all competitions during the eligibility period, while Mbappe led France to back-to-back appearances in the World Cup final, sensationally scoring a hat-trick against Argentina (albeit in an eventual losing effort) to scoop the Golden Boot.
All three are expected to be in contention once more in 2024, despite Messi’s move to Inter Miami at club level, but there’s plenty of other players who may feel they are in with a chance of being crowned the best player in the world.
Here’s 90min’s favourites for the award.
With Messi considered the best player ever by many, it’s inevitable that he’ll pick up votes in 2024 because of his reputation alone.
His performances are usually pretty damn good too though and, despite playing in MLS, Messi’s lack of international retirement after winning the World Cup means that he will have another chance of international glory at the Copa America in the summer.
If he plays to anywhere near the level he did at the World Cup, expect Argentina to win the tournament and for Messi to be, once again, one of the Ballon d’Or favourites.
Barcelona coasted to La Liga success in Xavi’s first full season in charge, and the Spaniard had the goals of Robert Lewandowski to thank for that success.
Lewandowski is heading into the twilight of his career but he still remains one of Europe’s most prolific goalscorers. If the Catalan giants enjoy further success in 2023/24, it will likely be because of the Pole’s exploits – his reputation also ensuring he’ll garner votes for the Ballon d’Or.
Arsenal‘s rise under Mikel Arteta has been impressive to say the least, with the club now firmly established as one of the Premier League’s top sides.
One of the star turns in north London has been Bukayo Saka, who has quickly matured into one of the finest wingers in the world. Also a key player for England,…
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