The world’s most prestigious individual prize is back after a year sabbatical, with a 30-man shortlist. Cristiano Ronaldo of Manchester United is anticipated to be chosen as one of the Ballon d’Or nominees today, as a 30-man shortlist is published. The world’s most prestigious individual football award will return later this year after a year break owing to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on worldwide domestic football.
30 players will be shortlisted as nominees for the award this afternoon, with the United returnee set to be in the race for the top prize once again.
Ronaldo is seeking to fight with long-time rival Lionel Messi after a fantastic season for Juventus and a sizzling start to life back in Manchester.
In the last 12 years, Ronaldo has won the award five times.
Lionel Messi, who has won the trophy six times in the last 12 years, is the overwhelming favourite this year.
In 47 games, Ronaldo has scored 34 goals and added four assists.
But who else is in the running for the title? Here are the favourites according to the bookmakers (via SkyBet).
Favorites for the 2021 Ballon d’Or
1/2 Lionel Messi: Lionel Messi’s statistics, as previously stated, speak for themselves. Barcelona are definitely hurting without him, as he is a simply devastating attacking player who led them to a title run last season.
5/1 Robert Lewandowski – The Polish striker, who is 33 years old, is likely in the best shape of his career. Lewandowski is playing like the finest number 9 on the planet, scoring 41 goals in 29 games while leading Bayern Munich to the Bundesliga title. He continues to dazzle this season with seven goals in as many games.
5/1 Jorginho – Jorginho, a much-maligned player, has just had an incredible year. He became a key character for Thomas Tuchel’s Chelsea, and was one of their best performances as they advanced to the Champions League final, before going on to win the European Championship with Italy.
Kevin de Bruyne (12/1) – Manchester City’s talisman enjoyed an outstanding season, leading his team to the Premier League title. For the second season in a row, he was named PFA Player of the Year.
N’Golo Kante (12/1) – The Frenchman, along with Jorginho, was instrumental in Chelsea’s Champions League success. N’Golo Kante, arguably the best box-to-box midfielder in the world, has gone from unappreciated and underappreciated to a contender for the Ballon D’Or.
Cristiano Ronaldo is a 16/1 shot – It appears that Ronaldo’s prior season is being overlooked among the favourites. CR7 will undoubtedly be nominated for the honour again this year, with 34 goals and four assists in 47 games.