The post-Messi-Ronaldo era is set to usher in a new wave of footballing talent as Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior emerges as a frontrunner for the Ballon d’Or.

As the first shortlist since 2003 to exclude Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo—two players who amassed a combined 13 Ballon d’Or titles—this year’s lineup reflects a new generation poised to redefine excellence in football. With contenders like Jude Bellingham, Rodri, Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, and Kylian Mbappe in the running, the race promises a fresh perspective on the game’s top individual honor.

At the forefront of the nominees is 24-year-old Vinicius Jr., who has been instrumental in Real Madrid’s recent successes. Although he faced a tough outing in Real Madrid’s 4-0 loss to Barcelona in El Clasico, Vinicius was pivotal in their historic Champions League run last season. With six goals to his name in the competition, his semi-final brace and a crucial goal in the final enabled Madrid to secure their 15th Champions League title.

Besides his contibution to football, Vinicius has left a mark in the fight against racism. Since his arrival in Spain in 2018, he has been exposed to racial abuse on several occasions, but he has not budged and has continued to use his platform to speak out against discrimination. In May 2023, his confrontation with Valencia fans at Mestalla Stadium, where he was exposed to racial abuse, attracted international support. With the help of fans, players, and world leaders, Vinicius has now emerged as a leader for change while drawing attention to a vital social cause in football.

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Who all are trailing behind?

Other than Vinicius, however, there is another guy who should be watched as he battles for the top award this year. He is Jude Bellingham from Real Madrid. Since the player joined the club, he has made a stunning impact. His versatility and goalscoring ability, together with his vision, made him give another new dimension to the club’s midfield. Thus, Bellingham like Vinicius, is a very strong candidate for this year’s Ballon d’Or.

Manchester City’s midfielder, general Rodri, is also not lacking. This is a midfielder who is fantastic in the defensive phase, spot on in passing, and plays. Rodri had a fantastic season with Manchester City in their treble-winning campaign and was just as good for Spain during their successful Euro 2024. He has proven himself to be one of Europe’s top midfielders by virtue of his consistency in games, and he deserves to be featured on the shortlist of the Ballon d’Or.

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Meanwhile, goal-scoring talents like Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, and Kylian Mbappe continue to dominate the world. Haaland’s prolific form for Manchester City, coupled with Kane’s reliability in front of goal and Mbappe’s explosive talent, have placed them among the leading names in football’s new generation.

Why Vinicius Jr. Deserves the Ballon d’Or?

Vinicius Jr. stands out not only for his impact on the field but also for the broader influence he has exerted on the game. His role in Real Madrid’s Champions League triumph last season was monumental, and his performances consistently elevate the team in high-stakes moments. His speed, technical finesse, and fearless attacking style have made him one of the most exciting players to watch, with his influence often determining Madrid’s success in critical matches.

Moreover, Vinicius’s activism against racism has demonstrated immense personal courage and leadership, showing that he is a player who transcends football to make a positive impact on society. In a sport striving for inclusivity, his advocacy has been inspiring, embodying the responsibility that comes with being a high-profile athlete.

Indeed, as the footballing world adjusts to the absence of Messi and Ronaldo from its limelight, Vinicius stands out with his talent, hardiness, and social prowess as a more than worthy successor to this most coveted individual honor within the game. His accolades mark a player suited to carrying the torch and then rewriting greatness for his teammates.

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