Real Madrid had an incredible 2024. Not only did they win the La Liga and UEFA Champions League double, they also saw many of their stars shine on the international stage.
Therefore, Carlo Ancelotti has every right to be proud of his squad. He has the best calibre of players in world football and the club is essentially bulletproofed for the next generation.
This has been exemplified by the recently announced 2024 Ballon d’Or shortlist. The Ballon d’Or is an award which aims to commemorate the best player in world football during a calendar year.
So, Real Madrid should take great pride in its dominance this year. For context, there are seven Real Madrid players nominated for Ballon d’Or award.
Seven Real Madrid players nominated for Ballon d’Or award
1. Vinícius Júnior
The best and most likely Real Madrid player to win the 2024 Ballon d’Or is Vinícius Júnior. The Brazil international was a key component to the Liga and Champions League win, even scoring a goal in the Champions League final.
In terms of raw talent, Vinícius Júnior is the best player in the world currently. Granted, it helps playing under Carlo Ancelotti and being surrounded by sheer talent but nobody can deny that Viní earned his spot in the Ballon d’Or shortlist. It also wouldn’t be contested if he won the whole thing.
2. Jude Bellingham
Currently on the treatment table for injury, Jude Bellingham will be incredibly proud to be included in the Ballon d’Or shortlist for this year.
In his first full calendar year with Real Madrid, Bellingham achieved incredible things, being Real Madrid’s top scorer in the league, winning the title and assisting in the Champions League final.
A large reason why Jude Bellingham will be included in the Ballon d’Or shortlist is his work with the England international team. England reached the EURO 2024 final, thanks to some great involvements from their best player, Jude. He scored that infamous bicycle kick in the final moments of the knockout stages.
3. Dani Carvajal
Admittedly, defenders have a hard time winning the Ballon d’Or. However, Dani Carvajal certainly earned his way into the 2024 Ballon d’Or shortlist.
The Real Madrid legend had a superb 2024, winning La Liga and the Champions League with Real Madrid, even scoring in the final. Dani Carvajal also had a splendid EURO 2024 tournament with Spain, winning the entire competition and putting in some exceptional displays at right-back.
4. Kylian Mbappé
Unsurprisingly, new Real Madrid signing Kylian Mbappé makes the 2024 Ballon d’Or shortlist. He is regarded as one of the best players in the world and is always up for consideration in awards like this.
In his Real Madrid debut, Kylian Mbappé scored a goal in the UEFA Super Cup. It took him a while to get off the mark in the league but he recently scored a La Liga brace. He is certainly considered for the Ballon d’Or.