One of football’s most renowned honors, the Ballon d’Or is presented yearly to the world’s top male player. When fresh talent develops and old performers keep giving their best performances, the competition for the prize gets tougher every year.
There are several players that might be in the running for the Ballon d’Or as 2023 draws closer. In this piece, we’ll examine some of the top contenders in more detail and evaluate their prospects of taking home the prize.
Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi must be mentioned in order to properly debate the Ballon d’Or. The Argentine superstar is recognized as one of the best footballers of all time and has a record seven victories. Messi is still competing at a very high level in his mid-thirties and has continued to guide Barcelona to victory both locally and internationally. It would be difficult to wager against him earning an eighth Ballon d’Or if he can continue playing at his current level through 2023.
Kylian Mbappe
When he first appeared on the scene as a youngster, Kylian Mbappe quickly made a name for himself as one of the finest players in the world. Paris Saint-success Germain’s in recent years has been greatly attributed to the French striker, who has helped the team win several Ligue 1 championships and go to the Champions League final. Mbappe has over 100 goals in his short career, and his lightning-fast pace and precise finishing make him a terror for defenders. He may be a strong candidate for the Ballon d’Or if he can keep improving and guide PSG to more success.
Erling Haaland
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Another teenage striker who has recently captivated the football world is Erling Haaland. For Borussia Dortmund, the Norwegian has been in fantastic form, scoring goals at an amazing rate and shattering records left and right. Haaland has already been linked with some of the biggest teams in the world. His strength and finishing prowess make him a terrifying opponent for any defense. He may be a dark horse possibility for the Ballon d’Or if he can keep scoring goals at his present clip and guide Dortmund to victory.
Mohamed Salah
When he joined Liverpool in 2017, Mohamed Salah has established himself as one of the greatest players in the Premier League. The Egyptian striker has more than 100 goals for the team and has contributed to their many championships, including the Premier League and the Champions League. Salah has established himself as one of the most dangerous strikers in international football thanks to his pace and talent with the ball. He may be a contender for the Ballon d’Or if he can continue to produce strong stats for Liverpool and guide them to greater success.
Kevin De Bruyne
One of the finest midfielders in the world, Kevin De Bruyne has played a significant role in Manchester City’s recent success. The Belgian is an exceptional passer of the ball and has the vision and skill to penetrate even the most solid defenses. In his career, De Bruyne has received multiple individual honors, including the Premier League Player of the Season trophy for the 2019–20 season. He might be a serious candidate for the Ballon d’Or if he can maintain his level of play and help City win more championships.
The year 2023 is sure to bring plenty of excitement and drama in the world of football, and the race for the Ballon d’Or will be no exception. With so many talented players vying for the award, it is impossible to predict with certainty who will come out on top
