Ballon d'Or 2024: Messi Left Out as Spain and Real Madrid Lead the Nominee List
For the first time in two decades, Lionel Messi is absent from the Ballon d'Or 2024 nominee list. Spain's Euro 2024 champions and Real Madrid's Champions League winners dominate the lineup. Read more on why Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and other top footballers were left out this year.
Ballon d'Or 2024: Messi Snubbed, Spain and Real Madrid Dominate Nominee List
In a historic shift, the Ballon d'Or 2024 nominee list excludes Lionel Messi, marking the first time since 2003 that the Argentine superstar has not been featured. This surprising turn of events has made headlines as football enthusiasts discuss the new contenders, led by Spain's Euro 2024 champions and Real Madrid's Champions League winners.
Messi and Ronaldo Absent from Ballon d'Or 2024 Nominee List
Lionel Messi, who secured his eighth Ballon d'Or just last year, finds himself left out of the 2024 list. At 37 years old, Messi’s absence is notable, given his recent success with Argentina, having won another Copa America title in July. Similarly, Portuguese icon Cristiano Ronaldo, another consistent feature of the award in the past two decades, is also missing.
Spain’s Euro 2024 and Real Madrid's Champions League Stars Lead the Pack
The 2024 Ballon d'Or nominee list shines a spotlight on Spain’s national team, fresh off their Euro 2024 triumph. Many of the Spanish players who played a pivotal role in the victory are expected to be strong contenders for the award. Real Madrid’s Champions League-winning squad is another highlight, with several key players making the list, further establishing the Spanish and Madrid dominance in world football.
Why Messi Was Left Out
Despite Messi’s ongoing success with Inter Miami in the MLS and his recent Copa America title win, it appears that this year’s award will focus more on the younger generation and European success stories. Messi’s Ballon d'Or journey saw him missing out in 2022 when Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema claimed the honor, only to return stronger in 2023 after leading Argentina to World Cup glory. However, this year’s omission signals a potential shift in the footballing landscape.
New Contenders for the Ballon d'Or 2024
The Ballon d'Or 2024 also introduces a fresh crop of contenders, including Real Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti and Spain’s national team coach Luis de la Fuente. With new stars rising and legendary names absent, this year’s Ballon d'Or promises to be one of the most exciting and unpredictable in years.
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