England's Euro Fades Don't Dim Musiala's Ballon d'Or Rise

The competition for the Golden Ball is intensifying - so who among the game's elite are true contenders, and who are mere pretenders?

Following his long-awaited World Cup triumph, Lionel Messi secured his eighth Ballon d'Or in October 2023 in Paris. However, as the footballing landscape evolves, attention now shifts to the heated debate surrounding the 2024 award.

While club seasons in Europe have concluded, the race remains fiercely competitive. Amidst the usual highs and lows of domestic football, this season has also featured major international tournaments such as the European Championship and Copa America.

Reflecting on a year dominated by Lionel Messi's heroics with Argentina and Erling Haaland's stellar campaign at Manchester City, the impact of these international competitions on the 2024 Ballon d'Or race looms large. Could this be the year a non-European club player clinches the prestigious award, as more top talents gravitate towards emerging leagues worldwide?

One certainty is GOAL's commitment to meticulously tracking the contenders for football's most coveted individual honor. Ready to stay informed? Join us for the latest update of our Ballon d'Or 2024 Power Rankings...

Previous update: June 3, 2024. Players no longer featured: Mohamed Salah, Mats Hummels & Declan Rice.

20Lamine Yamal (Barcelona) 

In 2023-24: Nine goals, 15 assists.

Barcelona endured a season without silverware and faced off-field turmoil, yet the rise of 16-year-old Lamine Yamal as their standout player offers hope for the future. The winger has set new records in La Liga and appears poised to be La Masia's next generational talent.

His impressive displays for Spain at Euro 2024 have also thrust him into the spotlight, introducing the teenager to a global audience. Should he maintain his form as La Roja push for success in Germany, a spot on the Ballon d'Or shortlist could well be within his reach.

19Lautaro Martinez (Inter) 

In 2023-24: 31 goals, eight assists. Won Serie A & Supercoppa Italiana.

Lautaro Martinez's challenges in key matches were epitomized by his disappointing penalty miss in Inter's shootout defeat to Atletico Madrid, which dashed their hopes of progressing to another Champions League final in the round of 16.

Despite this setback, Martinez had a stellar season in Serie A, leading Inter to a commanding league title. His form suggests he could play a pivotal role in Argentina's quest for Copa America glory. He made an immediate impact by scoring in La Albiceleste's opening victory against Canada.

18Antoine Griezmann (Atletico Madrid)

In 2023-24: 25 goals, 10 assists.

Somewhat overlooked, there's a compelling case that from the start of the 2022 World Cup through the end of 2023, Antoine Griezmann stood out as one of Europe's most consistently high-performing players.

His stellar form in the first half of the season had Atletico Madrid dreaming of both domestic league and European success. However, the Rojiblancos fell out of contention for the La Liga title and narrowly secured a top-four finish. Their Champions League hopes also fizzled out after squandering leads twice in the quarter-finals against Borussia Dortmund, missing a golden opportunity.

Looking ahead, Griezmann remains a pivotal figure for France's ambitions at Euro 2024 this summer. Yet, his prospects for clinching the Ballon d'Or this year appear slim at best.

17Bukayo Saka (Arsenal) 

In 2023-24: 20 goals, 15 assists.

Arsenal defied expectations in the 2023-24 season, disproving doubts of a post-title race decline, with Bukayo Saka spearheading Mikel Arteta's quest to end their lengthy Premier League trophy drought.

The English winger began 2024 in scintillating form as Arsenal showcased their peak performance, yet they narrowly missed out in their duel with Manchester City. Additionally, their Champions League aspirations fizzled out in a lackluster quarter-final exit to Bayern Munich, where Saka was effectively neutralized in Bavaria.

Now, back in Germany for Euro 2024 with England, Saka kicked off the tournament by assisting Jude Bellingham's goal. However, England's early tournament struggles hint at more disappointment ahead for the talented winger.

16Bernardo Silva (Manchester City)

In 2023-24: 13 goals, 13 assists. Won Premier League, Club World Cup & UEFA Super Cup.

Bernardo may have had plenty of memorable moments over the course of the campaign, including the winning goal in FA Cup semi-final victory over Chelsea, but the lasting memory from what could prove to be his final season at the Etihad Stadium threatens to be his embarrassing penalty miss in the shootout as City's Champions League defence came to an end at the hands of Real Madrid.

He still helped Pep Guardiola's side to a record-breaking fourth-successive league Premier League title - he laid on two assists in their title-decider on the final day of the campaign - and he has already found the net at Euro 2024 for a Portugal team that is packed with talent.

15Lionel Messi (Inter Miami) 

In 2023-24: 27 goals, 17 assists. Won Leagues Cup.

 Could Messi defy the odds and clinch another Ballon d'Or from across the Atlantic? In 2023, he made history as the first non-European-based player to win the award, recognized for his exploits at Paris Saint-Germain. Now, could he replicate that feat while exclusively playing in a new continent?

The challenges are daunting. With the MLS season kicking off only in February, Messi's chances of securing significant domestic titles during the 2024 award's evaluation period are slim. His hopes for continental glory with Inter Miami also ended abruptly, suffering a humiliating quarter-final defeat in the CONCACAF Champions Cup to Monterrey.

Despite these setbacks, Messi has shown electrifying form this season. If he manages to lead Argentina to a third consecutive Copa America triumph, then perhaps all previous doubts will be cast aside.

14Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City) 

In 2023-24: Eight goals, 18 assists. Won Premier League.

Kevin De Bruyne's improbable challenge for the Ballon d'Or, despite missing the entire first half of the season due to injury, might appear far-fetched. Yet, if anyone could propel themselves into contention, it would be the seasoned midfielder from Manchester City.

Upon his comeback in January, the 32-year-old exhibited remarkable form, once again assuming a pivotal role under Pep Guardiola's stewardship. Despite his pivotal goal against Real Madrid in the Champions League, City's pursuit of a historic double-treble faltered. His influence waned notably during the FA Cup final.

Nevertheless, De Bruyne remains Belgium's linchpin at Euro 2024, as demonstrated by his virtuosic performance against Romania. His display proved instrumental in revitalizing the Red Devils' campaign following a stunning defeat to Slovakia on the opening matchday.

13Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid) 

In 2023-24: Seven goals, eight assists, 21 clean sheets. Won Champions League, La Liga & Supercopa de Espana.

Real Madrid's unheralded star this season, Carvajal, delivered crucial performances on numerous occasions, contributing pivotal goals and assists while anchoring the right side of defense. His impact was unmistakable, notably opening the scoring in the Champions League final to secure Real Madrid's 15th European Cup triumph.

Carvajal appears to have seamlessly translated his club form to the international stage as well. He has already made his mark at Euro 2024, scoring for Spain in a tournament where La Roja have displayed formidable prowess in their initial group matches.

Erling Haaland (Manchester City)

In 2023-24: 45 goals, six assists. Won Premier League, Club World Cup & UEFA Super Cup.

During the 2023-24 season, Haaland showcased his prowess with an impressive tally of 45 goals and six assists, leading his team to victories in the Premier League, Club World Cup, and UEFA Super Cup.

Despite his outstanding performance, Haaland narrowly missed out on the 2023 Ballon d'Or. Can he finally break through this time? It seems unlikely. Despite his prolific scoring, his form in 2024 has been inconsistent, notably faltering in the recent FA Cup final. While he secured the Premier League Golden Boot, exiting the Champions League in the quarter-finals may dampen his chances for the Golden Ball.

Another significant setback is his absence from the summer's major tournament, as Norway failed to qualify for Euro 2024. This absence may diminish his impact in the eyes of voters, especially if other contenders shine during the event in Germany. Ultimately, Haaland's aspirations for the Golden Ball might be overshadowed by his inability to compete on the international stage this year.

11Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid)

In 2023-24: Three goals, three assists, 19 clean sheets. Won Champions League, La Liga & Supercopa de Espana.

Early in the season, Rudiger was not among Real Madrid's first-choice starting eleven, but injuries to Eder Militao and David Alaba propelled him into the role of senior center-back at the Santiago Bernabeu. This newfound responsibility suited him well, as evidenced by his stellar performances, particularly in shutting down Erling Haaland during Real Madrid's crucial Champions League victory over Manchester City in the 2023-24 season.

Rudiger concluded the campaign with both domestic and European titles under his belt, solidifying his stature as a key player. Now, he continues to demonstrate his importance to Germany during Euro 2024, where Julian Nagelsmann's squad aims for success on home turf.

    

10Rodrygo (Real Madrid) 

In 2023-24: 19 goals, nine assists. Won Champions League, La Liga & Supercopa de Espana.

Rodrygo experienced a dip in form following a strong conclusion to 2023, with other players at Santiago Bernabeu overshadowing the Brazilian winger in media coverage. Nevertheless, his crucial goals in both legs of Madrid's Champions League quarter-final triumph against Manchester City should keep him in the thoughts of Ballon d'Or judges, despite a less impactful display in the final.

Looking ahead, Rodrygo has the opportunity to shine for his national team at the Copa America, potentially solidifying his place among the genuine contenders for the Golden Ball by the conclusion of the summer.

9Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich)

In 2023-24: 15 goals, 10 assists.

Arguably the standout performer at Euro 2024 to date, Musiala has bounced back from a lackluster season with Bayern Munich, where the club ended without silverware, to ignite the host nation Germany in the group phase.

The ex-Chelsea academy talent found the net in Germany's opening two matches this summer, showcasing dazzling dribbling skills that have captivated fans across Europe. With major tournaments wielding significant influence in Ballon d'Or selections, Musiala now stands poised to thrust himself into serious contention for the prestigious award.

8Rodri (Manchester City) 

In 2023-24: 11 goals, 15 assists. Won Premier League, Club World Cup & UEFA Super Cup.

Prior to the FA Cup final, more than a year had passed since Rodri last experienced defeat within regulation time for Manchester City. This streak underscored his pivotal role, highlighted by City's losses in the initial three Premier League fixtures he sat out during the 2023-24 season.

Currently acclaimed as the premier defensive midfielder globally, the Spanish international's impact extends beyond his defensive prowess. His knack for pivotal goals and assists, including the decisive strike securing City's Premier League crown, has amplified his appeal among supporters and Ballon d'Or adjudicators alike. Moreover, Rodri figures prominently in Spain's formidable squad for Euro 2024, cementing his stature as a linchpin in both club and international arenas.

7Phil Foden (Manchester City) 

In 2023-24: 28 goals, 12 assists. Won Premier League, Club World Cup & UEFA Super Cup.

Kevin De Bruyne and Erling Haaland faced substantial absences due to injuries throughout the season, yet Phil Foden emerged as Manchester City's standout performer, marking his most exceptional campaign to date.

Following the turn of the year, Foden showcased his prowess with two Premier League hat-tricks and a memorable brace on the season's final day, crucial in se
curing Pep Guardiola's side a fourth consecutive domestic title. Despite his brilliant goal against Real Madrid at Santiago Bernabeu, City's Champions League journey ended abruptly in the quarter-finals with a heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat.

Despite being named Premier League Player of the Year, Foden has struggled to replicate his domestic form at Euro 2024, where his challenges to impact games for England suggest ongoing difficulties this summer in Germany.

Harry Kane (Bayern Munich) 

In 2023-24: 50 goals, 14 assists.

Bayern Munich's acquisition of Kane aimed to catapult him to a position where he could finally secure his first career trophy. However, despite his prolific scoring that surpassed a goal per game in the league, the Bavarians ended the season empty-handed. They relinquished the Bundesliga title to Bayer Leverkusen and fell short against Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-final.

Kane's impressive goal-scoring record came at a cost, seemingly draining the England captain's energy. His performances in the early stages of Euro 2024 have appeared sluggish and lacking in usual vigor.

5Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen)

In 2023-24: 20 goals, 21 assists. Won Bundesliga & DFB-Pokal.

Bayer Leverkusen's unprecedented 52-match unbeaten streak in domestic competition underscored a truly remarkable season under Xabi Alonso, culminating in the club's inaugural Bundesliga title achieved through an invincible campaign. They further solidified their success with a DFB-Pokal triumph, although their hopes in the Europa League were dashed by Atalanta in the final.

Despite this setback, Ballon d'Or voters are keen to recognize Alonso's pivotal players, with few having a more standout season than Wirtz. His decisive hat-trick against Werder Bremen in April underscored their championship triumph.

Since recovering from a serious knee injury, Wirtz's performance has been stellar, positioning him for a potential move exceeding £100 million within the next year. Currently, he shines as a key figure for Germany at Euro 2024, having opened the tournament with a crucial goal for the host nation.

4Kylian Mbappe (Paris Saint-Germain) 

In 2023-24: 51 goals, 20 assists. Won Ligue 1, Coupe de France & Trophee des Champions.

The saga is over, as we now know that this was Mbappe's final Ballon d'Or campaign as a PSG player, with his protracted move to Real Madrid set to be made official in early July. Mbappe's goals sealed a third-successive Ligue 1 title for the Parisians, but the forward's dream of bringing European success to Parc des Princes was ended with defeat in th Champions League semi-finals to Borussia Dortmund.

That said, with France among the favourites to win Euro 2024 in many people's eyes, the 25-year-old could yet enjoy an epic end to the season - as long as he manages to be the same player while wearing a mask!

3Toni Kroos (Real Madrid)

In 2023-24: One goal, 12 assists. Won Champions League, La Liga & Supercopa de Espana.

At 34, Kroos rolled back the years for Real Madrid in what turned out to be his last-ever campaign following his shock decision to retire. That said, his excellent performances only begun to be spoken about by a wider audience after his masterful showings against Bayern Munich in Madrid's victorious Champions League semi-final.

He backed that up by providing the assist for Madrid's opener as they secured European glory to go with their domestic title, while he has also been tempted out of international retirement by Julian Nagelsmann, with the metronomic midfielder already putting in superb showings at Euro 2024.

2  Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid) 

In 2023-24: 26 goals, 16 assists. Won Champions League, La Liga & Supercopa de Espana.

During the first half of the 2023-24 season, Bellingham emerged as the preeminent footballer globally, seamlessly integrating into Real Madrid akin to Cristiano Ronaldo in his prime. His ability to score consistently and crucially set him apart.

However, the buzz surrounding him waned in early 2024, partly due to injuries and suspensions sidelining him. Nonetheless, he reignited his pursuit of the Golden Ball with an industrious display that eliminated Manchester City from the Champions League, followed by a second stoppage-time winner in El Clasico.

At Euro 2024, Bellingham struck England's opening goal, despite their sluggish start in Germany. If the midfielder sustains his club-level performance throughout the tournament, the Three Lions remain strong contenders.

Vinicius Jr (Real Madrid) 

In 2023-24: 24 goals, 12 assists. Won Champions League, La Liga & Supercopa de Espana.

Vinicius faced a slow start due to injury when Benzema departed Real Madrid, but upon overcoming fitness issues, the winger not only regained form but excelled beyond expectations.

His standout performance included a hat-trick against Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final and impressive goal-scoring displays in La Liga, contributing significantly to Ancelotti's title-winning campaign. Most notably, he shone in both legs of Madrid's Champions League semi-final victory over Bayern Munich and dazzled at Wembley with a crucial goal in the final against Borussia Dortmund.

With Neymar's injury likely making Vinicius Brazil's key player at the upcoming Copa America, 2024 promises to be a standout year for him, possibly culminating in the prestigious Golden Ball accolade.