Ballon d\"Or 2024 Nominees Announced: Messi Out of Favor

The Ballon d'Or, the prestigious award for the best football player in the world, is set to announce its nominees for 2024. Despite Lionel Messi's recent success with Argentina in the Copa America and his status as the current holder of the award, he is not expected to be a frontrunner this year. Instead, the spotlight is likely to shine on first-time nominees, reflecting a shift in the football landscape over the past year. The ceremony will take place in Paris on October 28, where the nominees will be revealed. The selection process involves 100 journalists from around the globe who will vote based on individual performance, collective achievements, and fair play. This year, players from Real Madrid and Manchester City are anticipated to dominate the nominations, with stars like Vinicius Jr., Rodri, Jude Bellingham, and Erling Haaland emerging as strong contenders. Their performances in both domestic and international competitions have set them apart. The announcement of the nominees is highly anticipated, as it not only highlights individual talent but also reflects the evolving dynamics of football. The absence of Messi from the top ranks would mark a significant change in the award's history, given his previous dominance. As the football community gears up for the ceremony, the focus will be on the new generation of players who have made their mark, potentially paving the way for a fresh narrative in the sport's history.