The Daily Mail has just shocked the soccer world when it revealed the list of 12 players leading the 2024 Golden Ball race leaked on social networks. Accordingly, Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior is leading with 630 points, 54 points ahead of Rodri (Man City).
This information immediately caused a stir in the online community, especially when the official awards ceremony will take place tonight (October 28) in Paris. However, the authenticity of the list is still a big question mark.
With a brilliant performance with Real Madrid last season, Vinicius is considered the number 1 candidate for this year’s Golden Ball title. 24 goals and 11 assists in all competitions, along with noble titles such as the Champions League, La Liga… are the clearest proof of the Brazilian star’s talent.
Behind Vinicius and Rodri were Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé and Harry Kane. This result caused a big surprise to the football world when Erling Haaland, Man City’s main striker, was ranked 6th despite having a stormy season with 38 goals.
The appearance of defender Dani Carvajal in 11th place is also a notable point. The Spanish star had a successful season with Real Madrid and the national team, contributing greatly to winning the Champions League and Euro.
Many opinions believe that Carvajal only receiving 17 points is unfair, showing that the role of defenders is often underestimated compared to attacking positions. Lamine Yamal, Phil Foden, Dani Olmo, Florian Wirtz and Antonio Rudiger are the remaining names on the leaked list.
Public opinion is waiting for the official awards ceremony taking place tonight in Paris to confirm this information. If that’s true, the 2024 Golden Ball will be one of the most controversial awards ceremonies in history. The award ceremony also marked the third time since 2007 that the Golden Ball went to a player other than Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo.
