The Ballon d’Or, which is bestowed upon the top-performing footballer of the season, is an esteemed individual honor in the football world. This annual award is presented by ‘France Football’, a French news magazine, and is regarded as the most prestigious accolade in football.
A group of international journalists, national team captains, and coaches are responsible for selecting the winner of the Ballon d’Or. Winning this coveted award is a significant milestone in a footballer’s career, as it is highly esteemed and sought after by players worldwide.
4. Victor Osimhen (Nigeria/Napoli)
Victor Osimhen’s heroics have earned him widespread adulation in Naples, as the Nigerian striker propelled his team to their first Serie A title in 33 years, etching his name into the folklore of the city. This season, Osimhen has showcased his exceptional talent, which suggests he is close to reaching his prime. His incredible goalscoring prowess has been a crucial element in Napoli’s dominance in the league this season. He has scored an impressive tally of 28 goals and provided five assists in 35 appearances across all competitions for the Partenopei.
3. Kylian Mbappe (France/Paris Saint-Germain)
Kylian Mbappe has once again delivered a remarkable season at the individual level, as he has consistently done over the years. Despite his outstanding performances, he has fallen short of winning the coveted Ballon d’Or trophy.
The Frenchman has been prolific for both his club and country, having come close to leading France to World Cup glory. Although he could not guide Paris Saint-Germain past the Round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League, he is likely to finish as the top scorer in Ligue 1 and win the league title. However, whether these achievements are sufficient to secure him the Ballon d’Or remains to be seen. Mbappe has accumulated an impressive record of 36 goals and nine assists in 39 appearances across all competitions for PSG so far this season.
ALSO READ: Just START ||By: Segun AKINLABI
2. Vincius Junior (Brazil/Real Madrid)
Vinicius Junior is widely regarded as one of the most thrilling wingers in the world at present. Over the past few seasons, he has consistently improved his game and has now firmly established himself as the primary attacking force for Real Madrid. Vinicius is widely considered to be one of the finest footballers in the world and is a constant threat with his mesmerizing ball skills. He enjoys taking on defenders and leaving them scrambling to keep up with him.
Vinicius is renowned for his direct approach, and he always pushes the boundaries by attacking the opposition. This season, the 22-year-old has already scored 23 goals and provided 21 assists in 51 matches across all competitions under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti.
1. Erling Haaland (Norway/Manchester City)
Manchester City is on track to achieve a continental treble this season, and it is beyond dispute that Erling Haaland has been their best player so far. The Norwegian striker has been in an incredible scoring form for the Cityzens ever since he joined the club last summer. At times, he has appeared to be unstoppable, and he has already broken the record for the most goals scored in a 38-game Premier League season.
Over the course of the campaign, Haaland’s all-round game has improved tremendously, and it is astonishing to consider that he is only 22 years old. So far this season, Haaland has recorded 51 goals and eight assists in 47 appearances in all competitions for Manchester City. Could he win the Ballon d’Or this year? No one would be surprised if he did.
ALSO READ: [OPINION]: More Oshimen Will Emerged If Government Invest In Sports – Akinlabi
