The 2023 Ballon d’Or, the pinnacle of individual football awards, is set to captivate the world on October 30, 2023, in Paris. Amid a sea of nominees, a select few truly shine. iLOTBET presents the top 5 contenders who shine brightest in this constellation.
Rodri (Manchester City)
Rodri, the Spanish midfield maestro, has emerged as one of the finest defensive midfielders globally, known for his technical brilliance, disruptive skills, and precision at Manchester City. In the 2022-23 season, he scored four goals and provided seven assists, playing a pivotal role in City’s victories in the Champions League, Premier League, UEFA Nations League, and FA Cup. His 52 appearances culminated in a match-winning goal in the Champions League final, potentially propelling this often-underappreciated role into the Ballon d’Or spotlight.
Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City)
Belgian magician Kevin De Bruyne orchestrated Manchester City’s triumphs with 10 goals and an astounding 32 assists in the 2022-23 season. Despite injury setbacks, his resurgence was instrumental in City’s successes in the Champions League, Premier League, and FA Cup. A truncated Champions League final due to injury is a blemish, and his World Cup performance leaves room for improvement, potentially affecting his pursuit of the ultimate football accolade.
Kylian Mbappé (Paris Saint-Germain)
Kylian Mbappé, the French sensation, delivered 55 goals and 14 assists during the 2022-23 season. His brilliance secured another Ligue 1 title and the Golden Boot at the World Cup, featuring a memorable hat-trick in the final. Nevertheless, PSG’s early Champions League exit and a lack of deeper progress may diminish his prospects of claiming his maiden Ballon d’Or.
Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
Erling Haaland, the Norwegian goal machine, shattered records with 56 goals and nine assists. While his prolific form suggested a Ballon d’Or ranking, a subdued impact in crucial fixtures and Norway’s World Cup absence pose challenges.
Lionel Messi (Inter Miami)
Football legend Lionel Messi clinched the World Cup and Ligue 1 titles with 37 goals and 25 assists. Despite a subdued showing for PSG, his iconic World Cup triumph adds weight to his Ballon d’Or campaign. Yet, questions linger about whether this marks his final Ballon d’Or victory following his transition to Inter Miami.
Among the multitude of nominees gracing the Ballon d’Or list, these five emerge as the favorites. While Erling Haaland could have been a frontrunner in any other year, Lionel Messi finally winning the World Cup, coupled with the enchanting story of his career, may secure an eighth Ballon d’Or triumph.
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