Ballon d'Or 2024 Live Updates: Rodri Favored to Win With Vinicius and Messi Out of Contention

Rodri Emerges as Frontrunner

Manchester City's Rodri is now the heavy favorite to win the Ballon d'Or in 2024, following the news that Vinicius Jr. and Lionel Messi will not be competing for the prestigious award.

Rodri has been in exceptional form for City this season, helping the team to the top of the Premier League table and the semi-finals of the Champions League.

The Spaniard has been praised for his defensive qualities and his ability to control the tempo of the game.

Vinicius Absence Opens the Door

Vinicius Jr.'s absence from the Ballon d'Or race is a significant blow to his chances of winning the award.

The Brazilian has been in scintillating form for Real Madrid this season, scoring 22 goals in all competitions.

However, his failure to lead Madrid to Champions League glory this season has likely cost him the chance of winning the Ballon d'Or.

Messi's Era Ends

Lionel Messi's decision to retire from international football means that he will not be competing for the Ballon d'Or this year.

Messi has won the award a record seven times, but his recent performances for Paris Saint-Germain have been underwhelming.

The Argentine's absence from the Ballon d'Or race marks the end of an era for the award.

Other Contenders

In addition to Rodri, there are several other players who could be in contention for the Ballon d'Or this year.

These include Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe, and Karim Benzema.

Haaland has been in sensational goalscoring form for Manchester City this season, while Mbappe and Benzema have been key players for Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, respectively.

Conclusion

Rodri is now the clear favorite to win the 2024 Ballon d'Or, with Vinicius Jr. and Lionel Messi out of contention.

However, there are several other players who could still challenge for the award, including Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe, and Karim Benzema.

The Ballon d'Or will be awarded on January 16, 2024.