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Five Arsenal players nominated for Ballon d’Or award
- Arsenal have stunning representation for this year's Ballon d'Or award.
By Kian Long
Believe it not, we are approaching the end of 2024. Therefore, from Arsenal's perspective, this will mean one of two things; Firstly, the schedule is due to heat up and secondly, it's Ballon d'Or season.
Admittedly, it still feels bizarre to mention Arsenal and Ballon d'Or in the same sentence. This is because Arsenal fans have had to endure some mediocrity in recent history but over the last few seasons, Mikel Arteta is turning it around. Sure, it's a nice feeling to get used to.
Arsenal have come close to winning the Premier League in the last two seasons and their players have shone on the international stage. Therefore, in the recent Ballon d'Or shortlists, five Arsenal players were nominated for the Ballon d'Or award.
Five Arsenal players nominated for Ballon d’Or award
1. Martin Ødegaard
The first Arsenal player to make the Ballon d'Or shortlist is the captain, Martin Ødegaard. Throughout 2024, the skipper has been one of Arsenal's best players, despite unfortunately missing out on the 2023/24 Premier League trophy.
The Norway international did not qualify for the Euros, neither did his international compatriot Erling Haaland, who is also (unsurprisingly) nominated for the Ballon d'Or.
The former Real Madrid wonderkid was seen as down and out before making the initial loan move to Arsenal. However, working with Mikel Arteta has revitalised his career. He is a testament to hard work and sticking at it and of course, his magical touch and passing ability speaks for itself.
2. Bukayo Saka
The star-boy is turning into a star-man. Showing plenty of signs of maturity in 2024, Hale End graduate Bukayo Saka is the second Arsenal player to be nominated for the Ballon d'Or award.
Bukayo Saka was Arsenal's top goal-scorer last season. In 2024, the Englishman scored many important goals for Arsenal, including against Bayern Munich and Tottenham Hotspur.
For England at EURO 2024, Bukayo Saka was also one of the best performers. He scored a stunning goal against Switzerland to send the game to extra time, in a fixture which England ultimately won. Therefore, it really is no surprise to see Saka nominated for this award.
3. Declan Rice
In his first full calendar year for Arsenal, Declan Rice has been nominated for the 2024 Ballon d'Or award.
Declan Rice broke Arsenal's transfer record in 2023, becoming their first ever £100m+ player. However, Arsenal instantly saw a return on their investment, with Declan Rice becoming one of their best and most important players.
Like his teammate Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice impressed on the international stage, helping England to reach the 2024 EURO final.
The chant "Declan Rice, we got him half price" is only half an exaggeration.
4. William Saliba
After making the PFA Team of the Year, William Saliba has another personal nomination to add to his growing collection.
The French defender is emerging into one of the best centre-backs in the world and it's recognised through this Ballon d'Or nomination. Admittedly, defenders have a harder time winning this award than attackers, but Saliba can be proud to be nominated this award.
He definitely deserves it, too. Consistent great performances from Saliba in the Premier League and Champions League saw him earn a call-up to the France national team for EURO 2024.
5. Mariona Caldentey
Unsurprisingly, Barcelona players dominated the Ballon d'Or Feminin nominations, after winning the quadruple last season. Thankfully, Arsenal received their own slice of the Barcelona pie over the summer.
Mariona Caldentey is still a new addition to the Arsenal team but she did play for the Gunners last night, as they thumped six goals past Rangers in the UEFA Women's Champions League. The Spain star played 87 minutes and hopes to continue her momentum in the WSL.
Certainly, Mariona Caldentey is an exciting signing for Arsenal as she is the complete package. Last season, she scored 20 goals and provided 17 assists for Barcelona. Therefore, exciting times ahead in the WSL.
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