The world’s football elite will gather in Paris on Monday for the 2023/24 Ballon d’Or ceremony, with Real Madrid‘s Vinicius Junior and Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmati emerging as the frontrunners for the prestigious awards.
In the men’s category, this year’s shortlist marks the first since 2003 without Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo, who dominated the prize with 13 titles between them.
Vinicius Junior, widely tipped as the favourite, has had a standout season with Real Madrid, helping the club secure both the La Liga title and their 15th Champions League crown. His six goals in the competition (UCL), including a crucial brace in the semi-final, were pivotal to Madrid’s European success.Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has backed the 24-year-old Brazilian for the award, praising his character and influence on the field. “Vinicius is going to win the Ballon d’Or,” Ancelotti stated after Vinicius’ hat-trick in a recent Champions League win over Borussia Dortmund.
Beyond his on-field exploits, Vinicius has also become a symbol in the fight against racism, after facing multiple incidents of abuse in Spain. His stand-off with Valencia supporters in May 2023 earned him global support and further elevated his profile.
Among those challenging Vinicius for the men’s award are his Real Madrid teammate Jude Bellingham, Manchester City stars Erling Haaland and Rodri, and Paris Saint-Germain’s Kylian Mbappe. Harry Kane and Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal are also among the nominees.
In the women’s category, Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmati is expected to win her second consecutive Ballon d’Or. The 26-year-old playmaker was instrumental in leading Barcelona to a historic quadruple last season, including triumphs in the domestic league, cup, Spanish Supercopa, and Champions League. Her teammates Caroline Graham Hansen and Salma Paralluelo are also strong contenders but are unlikely to dethrone Bonmati.
The winners, decided by an international jury of football journalists, will be announced at the prestigious ceremony in Paris on Monday.
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