For nearly two decades, the names Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have been synonymous with the Ballon d’Or, with the duo dominating the football landscape by claiming 13 of the last 15 awards.
However, the 2024 edition of the prestigious honour marks a significant shift in the sport, as neither Messi nor Ronaldo received a nomination, signalling the end of an era in football’s greatest rivalry.
As the Ballon d’Or race moves forward without its two most iconic figures, Ronaldo, a five-time winner, has shifted his focus to the next generation of stars.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, “UR” with former Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand, Ronaldo shared his thoughts on the emerging talents poised to take center stage in global football highlighting and revealing his preferred players to win the 2024 Ballon d’Or and for other years to come.
Ronaldo remarked, “Kylian Mbappé can win the Ballon d’Or for the next few years. Probably Erling Haaland and Jude Bellingham [as well].” When Ferdinand mentioned Vinícius Júnior, Ronaldo acknowledged another rising star, adding, “Also Lamine Yamal. I think this new generation has a lot of potential.”
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