For the first time in nearly two decades, neither Cristiano Ronaldo nor Lionel Messi will be vying for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award this year. The omission of these football titans marks a significant shift in the landscape of the sport, signalling the rise of a new generation of players.

Ronaldo and Messi: The End of an Era

The absence of Ronaldo and Messi marks a significant turning point in football history. The pair have shared an astonishing 12 Ballon d’Or awards between them, with Messi holding the record with eight wins. Their consistent brilliance has defined an entire generation, and their rivalry has captivated fans across the globe.

However, as they enter the twilight of their careers, their performances have inevitably declined. Ronaldo, now playing in Saudi Arabia, has struggled to replicate his prolific goalscoring form, while Messi’s impact at Inter Miami CF has been less pronounced than in his Barcelona and PSG days. The Ballon d’Or, which rewards individual excellence over the past year, reflects their diminished influence on the game.

Rising Stars Take Center Stage

With Ronaldo and Messi out of the picture, a new generation of players is poised to step into the limelight. The 2024 Ballon d’Or nominations feature several young talents who have been making waves in recent seasons:

Erling Haaland (Manchester City): The Norwegian striker has been a goal machine since joining Manchester City. His incredible speed, power, and finishing ability have made him one of the most feared forwards in the world.
Kylian Mbappé (PSG): Despite playing alongside Messi at PSG, Mbappé has shone brightly. His electrifying pace and dribbling skills have terrorized defences across Europe, and he has already established himself as a global superstar.
Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid): The Brazilian winger has been a revelation for Real Madrid. His trickery, flair, and eye for goal have made him a key player for the Spanish giants.
Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid): The English midfielder has quickly become one of the most sought-after talents in Europe. His composure, passing range, and ability to dictate the tempo of a game have earned him comparisons to some of the all-time greats.

These rising stars, along with several other nominees, represent the future of football. They are the ones who will carry the torch forward and create new rivalries and narratives for fans to enjoy.

A Changing of the Guard

These nominations signal a changing of the guard in football. The era of Ronaldo and Messi is coming to an end, and a new generation of players is ready to take their place. While their absence will be felt, it also presents an exciting opportunity for the sport to evolve and showcase new talents.