MUSCAT : The 2023 Ballon d’Or shortlist of 30 nominees, set to be awarded on October 28, features a new generation of stars, signalling a fresh era in football. Vinicius Junior, Rodri, Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, and Harry Kane are all vying for the prize, with teenage sensation Lamine Yamal also earning a spot.

Notably absent are Lionel Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and last year’s champion, and Cristiano Ronaldo, who has lifted the trophy five times. Messi, who recently left European football to join Inter Miami, will not defend his title despite his stellar performance and Argentina’s Copa America victory in July. Ronaldo, now with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, also finds himself outside the nominee list as the award shifts its gaze toward rising stars.

The voting process for the Ballon d’Or has undergone key changes over the years, especially since the split between FIFA and France Football in 2015. As of 2022, the focus has narrowed, with voters now considering a player’s performance over a single European season from August to July. Additional factors such as team success, player behaviour, and fair play throughout the season have become crucial criteria.

Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior, Manchester City’s Rodri, and last year’s runner-up Erling Haaland are among the favourites to take home the Ballon d’Or.

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