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Matt Verri

Ballon d’Or 2024 LIVE! Results and reaction as Rodri wins and Real Madrid boycott after Vinicius Jr snub

Vinicius Jr Real Madrid Jonathan Gorrie Matt Verri Vinicius Junior Madrid (Organization) Lamine Yamal Carlo Ancelotti Dani Carvajal Emma Hayes

Ballon d’Or 2024 LIVE!

Real Madrid stars continue to slam the decision to overlook Vinicius Jr for this year’s Ballon d’Or award. The Brazil forward had been widely expected to win the biggest individual prize in football for 2024 but shock news emerged early on Monday claiming that Manchester City star Rodri would claim it instead, which he duly did.

Such was the level of anger in the Spanish capital, Los Blancos boycotted the ceremony entirely despite winning a host of other awards on the night. Carlo Ancelotti was named as the best coach of the year, while Jude Bellingham finished third in the men’s Ballon d’Or rankings ahead of Dani Carvajal, with the now retired Toni Kroos also in the top 10. A host of their big players have been making their feelings crystal clear on social media, too.

Aitana Bonmati won the Ballon d'Or Feminin for the second year in a row on a successful night for Barcelona, after Lamine Yamal won the Kopa Trophy, given to the best men’s under-21 player. Harry Kane shared the Gerd Muller Trophy with Kylian Mbappe after the pair both scored 52 goals. Emi Martinez once again picked up the Yashin Award for best goalkeeper, while the coaches awards went to Ancelotti and Emma Hayes. Real Madrid won the men’s club of the year award, but had nobody there to accept it. Follow all the latest reaction to a dramatic Ballon d’Or ceremony live below!

Ballon d'Or 2024 latest news

  • Rodri wins Ballon d'Or to end Premier League wait
  • Real Madrid boycott ceremony over Vinicius Jr snub
  • Aitana Bonmati wins Ballon d'Or Feminin again
  • Barcelona starlet Lamine Yamal wins Kopa Trophy
  • Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe share Gerd Muller Trophy

Vinicius Jr posts new message after Real Madrid boycott

19:00 , George Flood

Another post from Vinicius Jr on social media this afternoon.

The Brazilian has posted a picture of the Real Madrid squad along with the word ‘Juntos’, which means ‘Together’.

A reminder that yesterday after it became clear that he was not winning this year’s Ballon d’Or after all, Vinicius Jr said: “I'll do it 10x if I have to. They're not ready.”

Andreas Iniesta sends message to Rodri

14:25 , Jonathan Gorrie

From one Spanish maestro to another!

Guardiola sends message to Real Madrid after Ballon d'Or boycott

12:51 , Jonathan Gorrie

Pep Guardiola is “so proud” of midfielder Rodri after the Spanish international won the Ballon d’Or on Monday and believes Real Madrid’s boycott of the ceremony is “up to them”.

Read the full story here!

(Getty Images)

Rodri reveals call from Real Madrid star

11:28 , Jonathan Gorrie

Real Madrid may have boycotted the ceremony but Ballon d’Or winner has revealed one of the stars DID get in contact...

"I received a call from Dani Carvajal who was very happy for me,” he said.

“I wanted to remember him because I think he also deserved it. He has similar values to mine, of teamwork, of loving a club and of giving everything. We share many things, we have been brought together more by the injury.”

(REUTERS)

Rodri parties into the Paris night

10:32 , Jonathan Gorrie

Despite all the controversy, it’s worth remembering that Rodri has indeed been one of the leading players in the world.

He was certainly enjoying himself on Monday night!

Why Vinicius did NOT win the Ballon d'Or

10:06 , Jonathan Gorrie

The editor-in-chief of France Football magazine Vincent Garcia has suggested Vinicius Junior may have missed out on the Ballon d’OR because both Jude Bellingham and Dani Carvajal also finished in the top five.

"It was a close victory, it wasn't decided by much," Garcia told L'Equipe., external

"Obviously, Vinicius probably suffered from the presence of Bellingham and Carvajal in the top five because, mathematically, it took away a few points.

"It also sums up Real's season, which was carried by three or four players, and the judges shared their choices between them, which benefitted Rodri."

(AFP via Getty Images)

Lamine Yamal makes fresh Ballon d'Or claim

09:29 , Jonathan Gorrie

The Barcelona star, who won the prestigious Kopa Trophy, is eying the top prize soon.

Carlo Ancelotti's subtle dig

08:17

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti aimed a subtle dig at the decision-makers on social media...

Richarlison: No one can understand the decision

08:08 , Jonathan Gorrie

Tottenham striker Richarlison believes awarding the biggest prize in the game to Rodri was an “embarrassing” decision “no one can understand.”

Toni Kroos makes his feelings clear

08:02 , Jonathan Gorrie

Toni Kroos may have left the game behind but was keen to support his teammate, hailing Vinicius as “the best” on social media...

Real Madrid star slams "football politics"

07:43 , Jonathan Gorrie

Eduardo Camavinga is not happy...

The Real Madrid backlash continues!

07:29 , Jonathan Gorrie

Support continues to pour in for Vinicius Junior...

Rankings in full!

06:30 , Matt Verri

Here you go...

The 1-30 rankings for both the men’s and women’s Ballon d’Or:

Hayes recognised after stellar year

04:30 , Matt Verri

Emma Hayes picked up the award for the best women’s coach.

After winning a fifth Women’s Super League title on the bounce with Chelsea, Hayes then led the United States women’s team to Olympic gold in Paris over the summer.

"I just want to say I'm very honoured to be awarded the first Ballon d'Or for a coach in the women's game," Hayes said via a video message.

"I understand how challenging our work is. I feel a little embarrassed because we're in a team game.

“I've been so honoured to coach such incredible people at Chelsea and the United States. This is a very proud day."

Bellingham matches Lampard and Gerrard

03:00 , Matt Verri

It’s been slightly lost in the drama of Real Madrid boycotting the ceremony, but it was still a fairly significant night for Jude Bellingham.

He finished third in the Ballon d’Or, behind only Rodri and Vinicius Junior.

Bellingham is the first Englishman to finish in the top three of the voting since Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard in 2005.

(Getty Images)

Yamal continues Barcelona dominance

01:30 , Matt Verri

Lamine Yamal made it three winners of the Kopa Trophy in the past four years for Barcelona.

He followed in the footsteps of Pedri and Gavi in claiming the U21 award.

Worth a mention too for Kobbie Mainoo, who finished third in the voting

1 - Lamine Yamal (Spain, Barcelona)

2 - Arda Guler (Turkey, Real Madrid)

3 - Kobbie Mainoo (England, Manchester United)

4 - Savinho (Brazil, Girona / Manchester City)

5 - Pau Cubarsi (Spain, Barcelona)

(AFP via Getty Images)

Real Madrid hit out at lack of 'respect'

00:30 , Matt Verri

Real Madrid won the men’s club of the year, while Carlo Ancelotti picked up the award for the best coach.

There was nobody there to accept either of those prizes though, with the club boycotting the ceremony due to Vinicius Junior not winning the Ballon d’Or.

In a statement to AFP, Madrid said: "If the award criteria doesn't give it to Vinicius as the winner, then those same criteria should point to Carvajal as the winner.

"As this was not the case, it is clear that Ballon d'Or-Uefa does not respect Real Madrid. And Real Madrid does not go where it is not respected."

(AP)

Gundogan: Rodri the perfect midfielder

Monday 28 October 2024 23:45 , Matt Verri

Man City Ilkay Gundogan has taken to social media to celebrate Rodri’s win.

Successful night for Kane!

Monday 28 October 2024 23:17 , Matt Verri

Harry Kane finished tenth in the Ballon d’Or voting, but he’s still going home with a trophy.

England captain shared the Gerd Muller Trophy with Kylian Mbappe, after they both scored 52 goals last season.

Atletico pay tribute to Rodri

Monday 28 October 2024 23:02 , Matt Verri

With Real Madrid trying to pretend tonight didn’t happen, Atletico Madrid have decided to really rub it in by claiming Rodri’s win as their own.

Sure that will improve the mood at the Bernabeu.

Rodri: Midfielders coming into the light

Monday 28 October 2024 22:45 , Matt Verri

Speaking after he accepted his award, Rodri revealed his satisfaction at winning the Ballon d’Or as a midfielder.

He said: "Today many friends have written to me and have told me that football has won, for giving visibility to so many midfielders who have a job in the shadows and today it is coming to light.

"I'm a regular guy with values, who studies, who tries to do things right and doesn't try to follow the stereotypes, and even so I have been able to get to the top and it is thanks to all of you."

And a similar message from Tchouameni

Monday 28 October 2024 22:34 , Matt Verri

Fair to say Real Madrid aren’t feeling particularly happy with tonight’s result...

Vinicius breaks silence

Monday 28 October 2024 22:20 , Matt Verri

The Real Madrid man has taken to social media to have his say.

He posts: “I'll do it 10x if I have to. They're not ready.”

Man City celebrate their winner!

Monday 28 October 2024 22:14 , Matt Verri

No surprise that Man City had something ready for when Rodri’s Ballon d’Or win was confirmed...

Tonight's award winners in full

Monday 28 October 2024 22:07 , Matt Verri

Ballon d'Or: Rodri

Ballon d'Or Feminin: Aitana Bonmati

Kopa Trophy: Lamine Yamal

Men's Coach of the Year: Carlo Ancelotti

Women's Coach of the Year: Emma Hayes

Yashin Trophy: Emiliano Martinez

Men's Club of the Year: Real Madrid

Women's Club of the Year: Barcelona

Gerd Muller Trophy: Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe

Ballon d'Or results confirmed

Monday 28 October 2024 22:03 , Matt Verri

Just to tidy things up.

Rodri wins the Ballon d’Or, with Vinicius Junior second in the voting.

Jude Bellingham was third, just ahead of team-mate Dani Carvajal.

(AFP via Getty Images)

More reaction from Rodri

Monday 28 October 2024 21:59 , Matt Verri

On beating Vinicius and Bellingham: “They have all the future in their hands. I’m so proud to be elected as the best in front of these guys.

“I just want to say thank you to the people that recognised my value in the game. I’m very happy for me and my family.”

Monday 28 October 2024 21:56 , Matt Verri

Rodri says his focus in the last few years has been to contribute more in the final third, to become a more complete midfielder.

Says it’s almost like being a striker at times, with how much Man City spend in the other team’s half.

Monday 28 October 2024 21:52 , Matt Verri

“This is a victory not just for me, but for Spanish football.”

He then tells Lamine Yamal that he expects the winger to win this award soon.

The 17-year-old has so far tonight been told he could emulate Lionel Messi, has three years to break the Ballon d’Or record, and now this from Rodri.

Just as well he seems pretty confident. And good at football.

The winning moment!

Monday 28 October 2024 21:49 , Matt Verri

Rodri still in the very early days of his recovery from an ACL injury, but this will help lift his mood!

Monday 28 October 2024 21:46 , Matt Verri

Ruben Dias helps Rodri up, and Didier Drogba then does his bit getting the midfielder up the stars.

Rodri looked pretty emotional when his name was read out.

Rodri wins the Ballon d'Or!

Monday 28 October 2024 21:44 , Matt Verri

And there is the confirmation!

The first Premier League player to win the Ballon d’Or since 2008.

Monday 28 October 2024 21:43 , Matt Verri

Whoever is operating the camera is panning to Rodri every 30 seconds.

Guess they are slightly limited for choice when Dani Carvajal, Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior are all in a different country.

Weah, meanwhile, is revealing how much he admires Harry Kane.

Says he loves Tottenham, despite never playing for them. Not sure how we got onto this.

Monday 28 October 2024 21:38 , Matt Verri

George Weah, who won the Ballon d’Or in 1995, is on the stage. He’ll be giving it out.

Feels like they should be giving Rodri some notice. If he starts now, he should be able to get the crutches ready and up on the stage in time.

Not long now!

Monday 28 October 2024 21:36 , Matt Verri

Bit of a break while we wait for the Ballon d’Or to be awarded.

Don’t worry. I know exactly what you want...

Barcelona dominate!

Monday 28 October 2024 21:27 , Matt Verri

It’s a one-two-three for Barcelona.

Bonmati wins the Ballon d’Or Feminin, with Caroline Graham Hansen second in the voting and Salma Paralluelo in third.

Right then - one award to go, and it’s the Ballon d’Or.

Time to find out whether Real Madrid have made an almighty mistake or not...

Monday 28 October 2024 21:25 , Matt Verri

“Who is Aitana Bonmati off the pitch? Who are you?”

“I am a humble person. I am the same person as 15 years ago, with my feet on the ground, with my team in my village.”

And now Natalie Portman is asked if she has a few words for Bonmati. Tremendous.

Her answer is to urge people to buy tickets and watch women’s football.

Monday 28 October 2024 21:24 , Matt Verri

Slightly leading question, as Bonmati is asked how important the Ballon d’Or has been in improving her confidence on the pitch.

Not really, is the answer. Says the quality of her team-mates is what gives her confidence. Fair enough.

Monday 28 October 2024 21:21 , Matt Verri

Bit of French, few sentences of England and, unsurprisingly, a fair bit of Spain. Bonmati showing off in her acceptance speech.

Two wins for Alexia Putellas, two for Bonmati... Barcelona continue to dominate this award.

Aitana Bonmati wins the Ballon d'Or Feminin!

Monday 28 October 2024 21:16 , Matt Verri

The Barcelona star wins the biggest award in the women’s game for the second year in a row.

Was initially suggested that she might not be here tonight, due to being on Spain duty, but Bonmati was never going to miss this.

Monday 28 October 2024 21:14

Natalie Portman is now on stage, and she is seemingly being interrogated over how much she actually likes football. Still in the balance.

And now a bit of a French lesson as she talks us through her favourite words. Riveting stuff.

Carlo Ancelotti wins Men's Coach of the Year!

Monday 28 October 2024 21:11 , Matt Verri

Ancelotti picks up the award, after last season’s Champions League and LaLiga successes.

Once again, as with all the Real Madrid players and staff, Ancelotti is not in attendance tonight.

(AFP via Getty Images)

Emma Hayes wins Women's Coach of the Year!

Monday 28 October 2024 21:09 , Matt Verri

The former Chelsea boss picks up the award!

Hayes took charge of the United States national side earlier this year and led them to Olympic gold in the summer.

Not a bad way to start life in the job...

(Getty Images)
Monday 28 October 2024 21:04 , Matt Verri

Johan Cruyff’s son Jordi is on the stage - the trophies for both the men’s and women’s coach of the year will be named after his father.

Those awards will be handed out next.

Haaland fifth in Ballon d'Or voting

Monday 28 October 2024 21:01 , Matt Verri

Lautaro Martinez seventh, Kylian Mbappe sixth, Erling Haaland fifth.

That just leaves Vinicius Junior, Rodri, Dani Carvajal and Jude Bellingham.

It’s going to be quite the scene if it turns out that Vinicius has actually won...

Monday 28 October 2024 20:59 , Matt Verri

Standing ovation for Hermoso, who was kissed without consent by former Spanish FA chief Luis Rubiales as she collected her medal after the 2023 World Cup final.

Most deserving of any of the winners tonight.

Jennifer Hermoso wins Socrates Award!

Monday 28 October 2024 20:57 , Matt Verri

“In recognition of her exemplary role in the development and empowerment of women’s football, and her social commitment against sexual assault.”

Ballon d'Or Feminin rankings

Monday 28 October 2024 20:55 , Matt Verri

Three more players find out where they have come in the voting.

Marie-Antoinette Katoto is seventh, with Mallory Swanson sixth and Lindsey Horan fifth.

Aitana Bonmati looks to be in pole position to win that one...

Reaction from Emi Martinez

Monday 28 October 2024 20:52 , Matt Verri

"First of all, thank you all very much. It's an honour to be back. I'd like to thank my colleagues, my teammates at Aston Villa. They all know how demanding I am.

"I come from a very humble place and this is something that makes me want to do better and improve. It is the group effort that makes things happen."

Emi Martinez wins the Yashin Trophy!

Monday 28 October 2024 20:46 , Matt Verri

Lautaro Martinez is giving out the award... to his international team-mate Emi Martinez!

The Aston Villa goalkeeper wins the award for the second year in a row.

Monday 28 October 2024 20:42 , Matt Verri

The Ballon d’Or trophies have been brought onto the stage in very fancy cases.

“Made of gold, it’s value is priceless.”

I reckon you could find someone willing to put a value on it...

Update on the Ballon d'Or Feminin

Monday 28 October 2024 20:36 , Matt Verri

We’ve now got a pretty long montage, running through the rankings of the Ballon d’Or Feminin so far. I’ll save you some time:

  • 8 - Mariona Caldentey
  • 9 - Trinity Rodman
  • 10 - Alexia Putellas
  • 11 - Patri Guijarro
  • 12 - Barbra Banda
  • 13 - Lauren James
  • 14 - Ada Hegerberg
  • 15 - Khadija Shaw
  • 16 - Tabitha Chawinga
  • 17 - Alyssa Naeher
  • 18 - Gabi Portillo
  • 19 - Giulia Gwinn
  • 20 - Lucy Bronze
  • 21 - Mayra Ramirez
  • 22 - Glodis Viggosdottir
  • 23 - Tarciane
  • 24 - Lea Schuller
  • 25 - Sjoeke Nusken
  • 26 - Yui Hasegawa
  • 27 - Manuela Giugliano
  • 28 - Lauren Hemp
  • 29 - Ewa Pajor
  • 30 - Grace Geyoro
Monday 28 October 2024 20:31 , Matt Verri

Harry Kane asked if his German is getting any better...

The response is fairly blunt: “Nein.”

Kane takes award from Rummenigge

Monday 28 October 2024 20:27 , Matt Verri

"Thank you to my club Bayern Munich, all my staff, teammates, for helping me score all the goals I scored,” Kane says.

"It's an honour to take this award from a club legend, thank you very much."

Gerd Muller Trophy shared!

Monday 28 October 2024 20:24 , Matt Verri

Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe finish level on 52 goals so it’s shared.

But the good news for Kane is that Mbappe isn’t there, and so he can take that trophy all for himself and enjoy the applause.

Monday 28 October 2024 20:19 , Matt Verri

Tributes now being paid to Franz Beckenbauer.

Not an ideal start as the sound fails again on stage and there’s a lot of awkward staring.

But Karl-Heinz Rummenigge is then able to hear and talk about just how significant Beckenbauer’s legacy is.

Real Madrid win Men's Club of the Year!

Monday 28 October 2024 20:13 , Matt Verri

Winners of the Champions League, LaLiga... and now the men’s club of the year award.

Well, fair to say nobody is rushing up to collect the award for the. In fact, it’s a complete boycott.

So we move swiftly on. Not awkward at all.

Kane 10th in the Ballon d'Or rankings

Monday 28 October 2024 20:12 , Matt Verri

Back to the Ballon d’Or.

Confirmation that Harry Kane came tenth in the voting, with Toni Kroos (having made it clear he couldn’t care less about this award) in ninth.

Lamine Yamal eighth.

Mainoo third in Kopa Trophy voting

Monday 28 October 2024 20:10 , Matt Verri

Bit more detail on the Kopa Trophy, won by Lamine Yamal.

Arda Guler came second, with Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo in third.

Team-mate Alejandro Garnacho tied with Joao Neves for sixth.

Barcelona win Women's Club of the Year!

Monday 28 October 2024 20:08 , Matt Verri

Well this is all going very well for Barcelona so far.

Two awards, two wins.

After winning the Women’s Champions League last season, they were always likely to be awarded this.

More Ballon d'Or Feminin rankings

Monday 28 October 2024 20:06 , Matt Verri

Alexia Putellas is in ninth, with Trinity Rodman just ahead of the Barcelona star.

Arsenal’s Mariona Caldentey, who signed from Barcelona in the summer, is ranked eighth.

We’ll come back to that list later in the night.

Monday 28 October 2024 20:05 , Matt Verri

Dear me, no half measures here.

Ruud Gullit now asked if Yamal can go on to emulate Lionel Messi.

Yamal has been asked plenty of questions in English, the translation isn’t working in his ear, so he’s just shyly nodding.

Challenge set...

Monday 28 October 2024 20:03 , Matt Verri

Lamine Yamal is told that the youngest ever winner of the Ballon d’Or is Ronaldo at the age of 21.

He’s reminded that he now has three years to break that record... no pressure.

Lamine Yamal wins the Kopa Trophy!

Monday 28 October 2024 19:58 , Matt Verri

No surprises there!

The 17-year-old picks up the first award of the night, after making a huge impact for Barcelona and Spain.

Monday 28 October 2024 19:57 , Matt Verri

I thought it was too good to be true, the speed they got straight onto this award.

First we have a Gullit montage, and now he’s going through his career. In great detail.

Time for the first trophy...

Monday 28 October 2024 19:55 , Matt Verri

First up, it’s the Kopa Trophy. This is for the best men’s U21 players.

Ruud Gullit the man up to award it. I would suggest Lamine Yamal might want to start making his way to the stage...

Monday 28 October 2024 19:51 , Matt Verri

All the various nominees in the different categories have walked out onto the stage. There’s a lot of them.

Luis de la Fuente is out with Rodri, who hobbles his way on crutches across the stage and then has some steps to deal with. Just what he needs.

Here we go!

Monday 28 October 2024 19:48 , Matt Verri

The ceremony is up and running in Paris.

Didier Drogba and Sandy Heribert are hosting tonight.

Real Madrid finding joy elsewhere

Monday 28 October 2024 19:42 , Matt Verri

Meanwhile, over in the Real Madrid camp...

Who said they won’t have anything to celebrate tonight?

Ballon d'Or Feminin

Monday 28 October 2024 19:37 , Matt Verri

Quick reminder of the rankings so far for the big women’s award tonight:

  • 11 - Patri Guijarro
  • 12 - Barbra Banda
  • 13 - Lauren James
  • 14 - Ada Hegerberg
  • 15 - Khadija Shaw
  • 16 - Tabitha Chawinga
  • 17 - Alyssa Naeher
  • 18 - Gabi Portillo
  • 19 - Giulia Gwinn
  • 20 - Lucy Bronze
  • 21 - Mayra Ramirez
  • 22 - Glodis Viggosdottir
  • 23 - Tarciane
  • 24 - Lea Schuller
  • 25 - Sjoeke Nusken
  • 26 - Yui Hasegawa
  • 27 - Manuela Giugliano
  • 28 - Lauren Hemp
  • 29 - Ewa Pajor
  • 30 - Grace Geyoro

Kane in the top ten

Monday 28 October 2024 19:29 , Matt Verri

Harry Kane the latest to arrive on the red carpet.

No confirmation yet of where he has finished in the Ballon d’Or rankings, but we know he is somewhere in the top ten, even with Bayern Munich failing to win anything last season.

Rodri gives coy response

Monday 28 October 2024 19:23 , Matt Verri

Unsurprisingly, Rodri is asked about the rumours that he will win the Ballon d’Or tonight.

He does well to hide the acceptance speech in his pocket.

“To be honest, I don't know anything,” Rodri says. “Let's see what happens.

"It's a pleasure to be here and to be nominated as one of the best players."

(The FA via Getty Images)

Big night for Rodri

Monday 28 October 2024 19:16 , Matt Verri

Rodri has arrived!

The Ballon d’Or favourite on crutches, having suffered an ACL injury that will keep him out for the rest of the season.

There’s going to be a fair bit of moving up and down for him to do tonight, if the reports are correct.

Yashin Trophy shortlist

Monday 28 October 2024 19:07 , Matt Verri

As usual, it’s a 10-man shortlist for the best goalkeeper.

Emi Martinez won it last year and he’s in the running to defend his crown. He’s the only Premier League player nominated this time.

  • Diogo Costa (Portugal, Porto)
  • Gianluigi Donnarumma (Italy, Paris Saint-Germain)
  • Gregor Kobel (Switzerland, Borussia Dortmund)
  • Andriy Lunin (Ukraine, Real Madrid)
  • Mike Maignan (France, Milan)
  • Giorgi Mamardashvili (Georgia, Valencia)
  • Emiliano Martínez (Argentina, Aston Villa)
  • Unai Simon (Spain, Athletic Club)
  • Yann Sommer (Switzerland, Inter)
  • Ronwen Williams (South Africa, Mamelodi Sundowns)
(AP)

Kroos: Individual awards have no place in football

Monday 28 October 2024 19:02 , Matt Verri

Toni Kroos is on the Ballon d’Or shortlist tonight.

His ranking has not yet been revealed, but he’s guaranteed to be in the top ten.

However, fair to say the award is not something that gets Kroos particularly excited.

“Rodri will win the Ballon d’Or,” he said.

“I’ve never seen the importance of these individual awards in football, they have no place.”

(Getty Images)

Going to need a bigger red carpet!

Monday 28 October 2024 18:57 , Matt Verri

Barcelona players and staff have lined themselves up - there’s a fair few of them!

There’s a pretty decent chance it’s a successful night, with Aitana Bonmati in with a big chance of winning the Ballon d'Or Feminin again.

View from Paris...

Monday 28 October 2024 18:51 , Matt Verri

Here’s a little look inside the Théâtre du Châtelet, thanks to the Bayern Munich camp.

Not long now until the ceremony will be getting up and running.

Nine awards to be given out tonight.

Garnacho eyes future Ballon d'Or success

Monday 28 October 2024 18:45 , Matt Verri

Alejandro Garnacho has arrived on the red carpet.

The Manchester United winger is on the shortlist for the Kopa Trophy tonight, along with team-mate Kobbie Mainoo.

“It’s a special moment to be here with the best players in the world,” Garnacho says.

“It’s incredible. First time here, so I try to enjoy.

“I’m still young, I have many years to play and improve. Hopefully one day I can be here also for the Ballon d’Or.”

(Getty Images)

Barcelona boys are ready!

Monday 28 October 2024 18:33 , Matt Verri

While Real Madrid seemingly boycott the ceremony, Barcelona are going to milk it for every possible bit of content...

Latest Ballon d'Or rankings

Monday 28 October 2024 18:25 , Matt Verri

As we wait for the next set of rankings to be released, here’s a reminder of how the top 20 is looking so far:

20th: Hakan Calhanoglu, Inter and Turkey

19th: Martin Odegaard, Arsenal and Norway

18th: Emi Martinez, Aston Villa and Argentina

17th: Fede Valverde, Real Madrid and Uruguay

16th: Granit Xhaka, Bayer Leverkusen and Switzerland

15th: Nico Williams, Athletic and Spain

14th: Ademola Lookman, Atalanta and Nigeria

13th: Dani Olmo, RB Leipzig/Barcelona and Spain

12th: Florian Wirtz, Bayer Leverkusen and Germany

11th: Phil Foden, Man City and England

(Martin Rickett/PA Wire)

De La Fuente: Real Madrid absence not good

Monday 28 October 2024 18:20 , Matt Verri

We’ve also heard from Spain boss Luis de la Fuente, who led the national side to victory at Euro 2024 in the summer.

He’s been asked about Real Madrid boycotting the ceremony, as a result of Vinicius Junior reportedly missing out on the Ballon d’Or.

De La Fuente says: “It is not good for football that a club like Real Madrid is not present at a gala of this nature.”

(AFP via Getty Images)

"It's a big honour"

Monday 28 October 2024 18:14 , Matt Verri

Mats Hummels has been speaking on the red carpet and saying all the right things...

Foden just outside top ten

Monday 28 October 2024 18:08 , Matt Verri

Phil Foden is ranked 11th, after playing his part in Man City winning the Premier League and England reaching the Euro 2024 final.

Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz is just behind in 12th.

Fairly safe bet to predict that those two will be among those competing for the Ballon d’Or in the years ahead.

Red carpet time...

Monday 28 October 2024 17:53 , Matt Verri

The famous faces are starting to arrive on the red carpet in Paris.

Djibril Cisse among the first up, and he’s wearing... a lot of material.

Ancelotti had backed Vinicius

Monday 28 October 2024 17:48 , Matt Verri

Carlo Ancelotti has been convinced that Vinicius Junior will win the Ballon d’Or.

The Brazilian scored a hat-trick as Real Madrid came from two goals down to beat Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League last week, and Ancelotti was asked about Vinicius’ hopes of winning the award after the match.

“What I can say is that it’s rare to see a player who plays a second half like Vinicius did. And not because of the three goals but because of his character; he’s extraordinary,” Ancelotti said.

“Vinicius is going to win [the Ballon d’Or], not for what he did tonight, but for what he did last year. These three goals are already going to count for next year’s Ballon d’Or, that’s for sure.”

(AFP via Getty Images)

Former Gunners thriving

Monday 28 October 2024 17:39 , Matt Verri

And ahead of them all are a couple of former Arsenal players.

Emi Martinez comes 18th, rewarded for his performances for Argentina and Aston Villa.

Granit Xhaka, meanwhile is 16th, having been nominated for the first time. It was a remarkable first season at Bayer Leverkusen, winning the Bundesliga without losing a single match.

(AFP via Getty Images)

Arsenal rankings finalised

Monday 28 October 2024 17:26 , Matt Verri

Only Real Madrid have more players nominated for the men’s Ballon d’Or than Arsenal.

Four players for the Gunners made the 30-man shortlist, and it’s Martin Odegaard who has just about got the better of his team-mates.

26th - Declan Rice24th - William Saliba21st - Bukayo Saka19th - Martin Odegaard

(Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Kopa Trophy

Monday 28 October 2024 17:18 , Matt Verri

One of the many awards to look out for tonight is the Kopa Trophy, given to the best U21 men’s player in the game.

Two Manchester United players on the shortlist, but Lamine Yamal has to be the favourite.

  • Pau Cubarsi (Spain, Barcelona)
  • Alejandro Garnacho (Argentina, Manchester United)
  • Arda Guler (Turkey, Real Madrid)
  • Karim Konate (Ivory Coast, RB Salzburg)
  • Kobbie Mainoo (England, Manchester United)
  • Joao Neves (Portugal, Benfica / Paris Saint-Germain)
  • Savinho (Brazil, Girona / Manchester City)
  • Mathys Tel (France, Bayern Munich)
  • Lamine Yamal (Spain, Barcelona)
  • Warren Zaire-Emery (France, Paris Saint-Germain)
(AP)

Lauren James ranked 13th

Monday 28 October 2024 17:10 , Matt Verri

Flying through the rankings for the Ballon d'Or Feminin.

In terms of the Lionesses, it’s Lauren Hemp in 28th, Lucy Bronze 20th... and now Lauren James 13th.

The Chelsea star is only 23-year-old... she’s going to be on this shortlist for many, many years to come.

Saka ranking confirmed

Monday 28 October 2024 17:00 , Matt Verri

Right, back to the rankings.

Antonio Rudiger next up, in 22nd, and then it’s Bukayo Saka.

The Arsenal star was nominated for the first time last year when he was ranked 24th... it’s three better for him this time.

Would have been significantly higher than that had Arsenal got over the line and won the Premier League.

(Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

The list they want to join!

Monday 28 October 2024 16:52 , Matt Verri

Whatever happens tonight, we will get a first-time winner.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are not on the shortlist, having won it 13 times between them since 2008.

Karim Benzema and Luka Modric the only ones to break that dominance, but neither of them have been nominated this time.

Bronze voices frustration

Monday 28 October 2024 16:43 , Matt Verri

It’s one of the biggest nights in the football calendar, but many of the best players in the women’s game will not be in attendance.

That includes the likes of Lucy Bronze and Lauren Hemp, who are currently on England duty ahead of tomorrow night’s match against South Africa.

Players voiced their frustration last year that the ceremony was taking place during a women’s international break, but a change has not been made this time.

“These barriers being put up in front of us again is very frustrating,” Bronze said last week.

“And not only frustrating that it’s happened, but it obviously happened last year. And it’s like is anybody listening?

“It’s quite alarming that it’s literally a window where everybody goes all over the place. It just seems quite inconsiderate in a way.”

(Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

Dias just ahead of Saliba

Monday 28 October 2024 16:33 , Matt Verri

William Saliba made the 30-man shortlist for the first time this season.

The Arsenal defender has established himself as one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League, if not the world. He’s ranked 24th.

Next up is Ruben Dias in 23rd - he was 30th last year. He’ll be right up there by 2027 at this rate...

(Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

England duo next up!

Monday 28 October 2024 16:26 , Matt Verri

Moving swiftly through these rankings.

In 26th it’s Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice, who has hit the ground running in north London since arriving from West Ham.

And Cole Palmer is ranked 25th, after a sensational first season at Chelsea.

Feels like he’d be much higher on just his individual performances, but Chelsea’s struggles mean he is still a fair bit down the rankings.

(AP)

First men's rankings revealed

Monday 28 October 2024 16:18

And over on the men’s side...

Mats Hummels and Artem Dovbyk are ranked in a tie for 29th.

The pair are now team-mates at Roma, but it was their performances last season that got them shortlisted.

Hummels reached the Champions League final with Borussia Dortmund, while Dovbyk finished as top score in LaLiga for Girona.

Bayer Leverkusen’s Alejandro Grimaldo is 28th, just behind PSG midfielder Vitinha.

(Getty Images)

Rankings have begun!

Monday 28 October 2024 16:08 , Matt Verri

Still a few hours to go until the ceremony gets underway, but the rankings for the men’s and women’s Ballon d’Or have started to be released.

Players from 30th to 21st have been confirmed for the women’s award, with England winger Lauren Hemp in 28th.

Man City team-mate Yui Hasegawa is 26th, while Chelsea striker Mayra Ramirez has come 21st in the rankings.

[object Object] (The FA via Getty Images)

Busy night ahead...

Monday 28 October 2024 16:00 , Matt Verri

Here is the list of awards to look out for throughout the night:

  • Men's Ballon d'Or
  • Women's Ballon d'Or
  • Kopa Trophy (best player under 21 years old)
  • Yashin Trophy (best goalkeeper)
  • Gerd Muller Trophy (top goalscorer from 2023/24 season)
  • Men's Club of the Year trophy
  • Women's Club of the Year trophy
  • Men's Coach of the Year
  • Women's Coach of the Year

Barcelona in attendance!

Monday 28 October 2024 15:54 , Matt Verri

Real Madrid won’t be represented in Paris tonight, but Barcelona certainly will be.

Lamine Yamal one of those who has just landed and it could be a big night for the teenager.

He is on the 30-man shortlist for the Ballon d’Or, and surely has a huge chance of winning the Kopa Trophy for the best U21 player.

Real Madrid set to skip ceremony after twist

Monday 28 October 2024 15:44 , Matt Verri

Vinicius Junior has been the big favourite to win the Ballon d’Or tonight, a reward for his stellar performances as Real Madrid won the Champions League and LaLiga last season.

However, reports today suggest that Vinicius is in fact now set to miss out.

It’s claimed that Real Madrid have been told he will not win and are therefore not planning to attend, with Florentino Perez, Carlo Ancelotti and Jude Bellingham among those joining Vinicius in skipping the ceremony.

A dramatic late twist ahead of tonight’s event, with Rodri now the favourite.

(AP)

Ballon d'Or shortlist in full

Monday 28 October 2024 15:36 , Matt Verri
  • Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
  • Hakan Calhanoglu (Inter Milan)
  • Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid)
  • Ruben Dias (Manchester City)
  • Artem Dovbyk (Dnipro/Girona/Roma)
  • Phil Foden (Manchester City)
  • Alejandro Grimaldo (Bayer Leverkusen)
  • Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
  • Mats Hummels (Borussia Dortmund)
  • Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
  • Toni Kroos (Real Madrid)
  • Ademola Lookman (Atalanta)
  • Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa)
  • Lautaro Martinez (Inter Milan)
  • Kylian Mbappe (PSG/Real Madrid)
  • Martin Odegaard (Arsenal)
  • Dani Olmo (RB Leipzig/Barcelona)
  • Cole Palmer (Manchester City/Chelsea)
  • Declan Rice (Arsenal)
  • Rodri (Manchester City)
  • Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid)
  • Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
  • William Saliba (Arsenal)
  • Federico Valverde (Real Madrid)
  • Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)
  • Vitinha (PSG)
  • Nico Williams (Athletic Club)
  • Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen)
  • Granit Xhaka (Bayer Leverkusen)
  • Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)

Click here to read the full blog on The The Standard's website

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