Football’s biggest individual prize is due to be handed out on Monday 16 October 2023 and will be the first year to take into account the change in the award criteria away from a full calendar year.
Previously, a player’s achievements from January to December in a given year were what the Ballon d’Or was based on, which rather confusingly made it two half seasons. Now, however, a typical full club season from one summer to the next is the timeframe things will be judged on.
Right in the middle of that for the 2023 award was the 2022 World Cup, with the finals in Qatar taking place after the 2022 Ballon d’Or ceremony. World Cup tournaments always heavily influence the make-up of the shortlist and this time will be no different.
With the 2022/23 season now at an end, it's time to look at how should be considered the frontrunners for the most prized individual award in football.
Here are top favorites to win the 2023 Ballon D'or.
1: Lionel Messi
Although other players are worthy nominees, it is almost impossible to see anyone aside from Lionel Messi winning the Ballon d'Or in 2023. He was the Golden Ball winner as best player at the World Cup, before finally lifting the trophy as captain. An astonishing eighth Ballon d'Or beckons.
2: Kylian Mbappe
Only the second male player in history to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final. He didn't win it but was a major reason France reached the final again.
3: Erling Haaland
Manchester City's Norwegian star didn't have the chance to play at the World Cup but has exceeded expectations since moving to English football, breaking a whole host of records en route to a historic treble with City.
4: Benzema
While Karim Benzema wasn't able to replicate his 2021/22 heroics this season, his 30 goals in all compeitions at age 35 are certainly nothing to be sniffed at.
5: Vinicius Jr
Vinicius will no doubt have designs on winning the Ballon d'Or during his career, and his impressive 2022/23 season in which he bagged 20 goals for Los Blancos will have done his chances of winning one plenty of favours.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0