Considered one of Brazil’s greatest footballing legends, Ronaldo has made his opinion known on which player he believes deserves this prestigious individual award.
The Ballon d’Or will now be awarded based on performance during the season, and no longer over the calendar year. The reference period for the Ballon d’Or 2023 therefore extends from August 1, 2022 to July 31, 2023. The award ceremony will be held at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris on October 30, while the nominations will be announced on September 6.
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After inspiring Argentina to win their first World Cup since 1986 last December, Lionel Messi has quickly established himself as the heavy favorite to win the Ballon d’Or this year. At 35, Messi has finally achieved his dream of becoming world champion, which could earn him further recognition at this award show.
A big challenge for Messi
However, Messi will have serious competitors, including the Manchester City duo of Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne. These two players won the treble with Manchester City, lifting trophies of the the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League.
Other potential suitors include Kylian Mbappe, who became the second player in history to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final, and Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior. These players have performed exceptionally well over the course of the season and could therefore claim a place among the nominees for the Ballon d’Or.
