Messi wins record eighth Ballon d’Or
As expected, Lionel Messi wins a record-extending eighth Ballon d’Or Trophy after leading Argentina to World Cup glory.
Messi says “I couldn’t imagine having the career I’ve had and everything I’ve achieved, the fortune I’ve had to be part of the best team in history”.
“To win the Copa America and to get the World Cup after all those difficult moments in the national teams,” continues Messi.
Aitana Bonmati: Triumph in Ballon d’Or Feminin
Spain and Barcelona star Aitana Bonmati clinched her first Ballon d’Or Feminin award, marking a significant milestone in her career. With Barcelona, she secured the Liga F, Supercopa, and Champions League titles. Additionally, she played a crucial role in leading her country to World Cup glory.
Expressing her joy, Bonmati stated, “I’m very proud to win the Ballon d’Or. Football is a collective sport, so I’d like to extend this prize to my teammates and staff.”
In the rankings, Sam Kerr of Chelsea and Australia claimed the second spot, while Barcelona and Spain teenager Salma Paralluelo secured the third position. Fridolina Rolfo of Barcelona and Sweden finished fourth in the prestigious awards.
Manchester City: Triumphant Men’s Club of the Year
Manchester City clinched the prestigious title of Men’s Club of the Year following their remarkable Treble achievement in the previous season.
Gerd Muller Trophy: Goal-Scoring Triumphs
Erling Haaland was awarded the Gerd Muller for the best striker. His 56 goals propelling Manchester City to their Treble year, helping them win the FA Cup, the English Premier League and the UEFA Champions League.
He beat the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Harry Kane, Lionel Messi and Robert Lewandowski to the award.
Martinez: Yashin Trophy Victory
Former Oxford United loanee Emiliano Martinez secured the coveted Yashin Trophy, recognizing him as the best goalkeeper in the world. His heroics at the World Cup helped him Martinez outshine competitors like Ederson, who achieved the English Treble with Manchester City, as well as Thibault Courtois, Yasine Bono and Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
Barcelona Women are Football Club of the Year
Barcelona Women clinched the title of Women’s Football Club of the Year, securing a historic treble in the process. They triumphed in the Spanish Cup, marking their third victory in the competition, and also claimed their second Women’s Champions League title and the Female La Liga.
Jude Bellingham is the World Best Young Player
England midfielder Jude Bellingham emerged victorious, winning the prestigious Kopa Trophy for the world’s best young player. Real Madrid’s Bellingham expressed gratitude towards his family and notable figures like Gary Lineker and David Beckham, who smiled approvingly from the crowd.
Reflecting on his experience at Real Madrid, Bellingham shared, “It’s been truly fulfilling. The club welcomed me warmly, and I have confidence in my abilities. Their support empowers me to showcase my talent.” He also discussed wearing Zinedine Zidane’s iconic number five jersey, stating, “It comes with pressure, but it’s a challenge I willingly embraced—a tribute to one of my heroes.”
This was the top 10 for the Kopa Trophy:
1. Jude Bellingham
2. Jamal Musiala
3. Pedri
4. Eduardo Camavinga
5. Gavi
6. Xavi Simons
7. Alejandro Balde
8. Antonio Silva
9. Rasmus Hojlund
9. Elye Wahi
Vinicius Junior wins Socrates Award
Real Madrid and Brazil winger Vinicius Jr received the Socrates award for his foundation’s commendable efforts in aiding underprivileged Brazilian children. The Socrates award, dedicated to humanitarian work, stands as a testament to his impactful contributions.
Remembering Football Legends
A poignant segment paid tribute to football legends who passed away this year, including Sir Bobby Charlton and Pele, commemorating their enduring legacy in the sport.
Afrobeat Highlighted
Afrobeat was on showcase when Rema, sang his hit song ‘Calm Down’ to stars and the best of World football. The Nigerian artist, Rema becomes the first Afrobeats artist to perform at the Ballon d’Or.
