Where did Arsenal players finish in the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings?

There was plenty of controversy this year, but Arsenal had a great showing. Where did Arsenal players finish in the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings?

The 2024 Ballon d'Or rankings were unveiled to the world last night. However, it feels like the awards have lost their charm slightly. In years gone by, fans would only hear about the rankings at the time of the ceremony. This year, the results were leaked to social media hours before the ceremony began.

So, it was no surprise to see Rodri of Manchester City lift the Golden Ball. It is hard to say the Spanish midfielder didn't deserve the award, however, when compared to Vinicius Junior there is certainly a debate to be had.

Where did Arsenal players finish in the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings?

Martin Odegaard (highest finish - 19th)

The highest finish of any Arsenal player at this year's Ballon d'Or was Martin Odegaard. The Arsenal skipper finished in a respectable 19th place.

Martin Odegaard had yet another splendid year as Arsenal captain. A maestro with the ball at his feet, he was unfortunate not to lift the Premier League title at the second time of asking.

Still, his impressive first touch and wide range of passing were impossible to ignore. One can imagine the "fair play" element of the rankings played into Martin Odegaard, who is one of the best sportsmen in the game.

Bukayo Saka (second highest finish - 21st)

The second highest placed Arsenal player was Bukayo Saka. Arsenal's star-boy finished in 21st, just two places behind the captain.

Bukayo Saka had a tremendous season with Arsenal and the England national team. With England, he was influential in them reaching the final of EURO 2024, scoring important goals and a crucial penalty.

Bukayo Saka only seems to be getting better season on season. He is Arsenal's main source of attacking returns and this will only continue to be the case in the current campaign.

William Saliba (third highest finish - 24th)

William Saliba is the third highest Arsenal representative in the rankings. As one of the best defenders in the world, the Frenchman placed 24th in the rankings.

Unlike the prior season, William Saliba went the 2023/24 campaign without injury. His importance was reflected in Arsenal coming closer to the Premier League title.

William Saliba is known as the Rolls Royce defender. He is calmness personified, especially in one-on-one situations. Having dealt with some of the best attackers in the game throughout last season, there's a reason why he ranked so high.

Declan Rice (fourth highest finish - 26th)

Last but certainly not least, Declan Rice finished 26th in the 2024 Ballon d'Or rankings.

In 2023, Arsenal made Declan Rice their most expensive signing in history. He was the first Arsenal player to break the £100m threshold.

However, he has repaid Arsenal tenfold in dividends. He is one of the best midfielders in the world, his place in the 2024 Ballon d'Or rankings only personifying this fact.

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