The 2024 football season has been nothing short of spectacular, with players across the globe delivering jaw-dropping performances. While the official Ballon d’Or stirred its usual debates, we at ProSports have compiled our own list of the best footballers of 2024.
Here’s the 2024 Top 10 footballers of the year:
Alexander Isak had a stellar 2023-24 season, finishing with 21 Premier League goals, ranking third in the scoring charts behind Erling Haaland and Cole Palmer. Despite Sweden’s failure to qualify for Euro 2024, Isak’s performances for Newcastle United were remarkable. However, the current season has seen some inconsistency, partly due to a toe injury and contract negotiations. Even so, Isak has managed seven goals in 15 appearances, including a standout performance in Newcastle’s thrilling 3-3 draw with Liverpool.
Cole Palmer’s meteoric rise at Chelsea has been one of the most exciting stories of the year. Sold by Manchester City in 2023, the 22-year-old forward has become a sensation at Stamford Bridge. Palmer scored 27 goals last season and was England’s standout performer at Euro 2024, where he equalized in the final against Spain. With more goals and assists than any other Premier League player in 2024, Palmer’s creativity, composure, and penalty-taking prowess have made him a fan favorite.
Nicknamed “The Falcon,” Federico Valverde has been the engine of Real Madrid’s midfield. Wearing Toni Kroos’s iconic No. 8 shirt, Valverde’s versatility, intelligence, and relentless work rate have made him indispensable to Carlo Ancelotti’s side. While his selflessness sometimes overshadows his individual brilliance, Ancelotti has called him “irreplaceable.” Valverde’s ability to dominate games with his energy and tactical awareness has been crucial for both club and country.
Despite missing Euro 2024 due to Norway’s failure to qualify, Erling Haaland remains one of the most feared strikers in the world. Although Manchester City’s title defense has been inconsistent, Haaland’s goal-scoring prowess is undeniable. He is currently second in the Premier League scoring charts, just behind Mohamed Salah. With his ability to turn games on their head, Haaland remains a key figure in City’s quest for domestic and European glory.
At just 17 years old, Lamine Yamal has taken the football world by storm. The Barcelona prodigy played a pivotal role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, scoring a stunning goal against France in the semi-finals. His maturity, skill, and composure on the biggest stages have drawn comparisons to Lionel Messi. Yamal’s performances in 2024 have been nothing short of extraordinary, and he is already being hailed as the future of football.
Alessandro Bastoni has established himself as one of the best defenders in the world. Named Serie A’s best defender for the 2023-24 season, Bastoni’s exceptional passing range and tactical intelligence have been instrumental in Inter Milan’s success. His ability to push forward and contribute to attacks has redefined the role of a center-back. With time on his side, Bastoni is poised to become even better in the coming years.
Jude Bellingham’s 2024 was a year to remember. The English midfielder was instrumental in Real Madrid’s La Liga and Champions League triumphs, scoring 23 goals and being named La Liga’s Player of the Season. He also led England to the Euro 2024 final. While his goal-scoring form dipped after Kylian Mbappé’s arrival at Madrid, Bellingham’s adaptability and team-first mentality have solidified his status as one of the best midfielders in the world.
Rodri’s influence on the pitch is unparalleled. The Manchester City midfielder was the heartbeat of Spain’s Euro 2024-winning side, dictating the tempo with his calmness and precision. His ability to control games and make decisive contributions, such as his iconic performance against Georgia, has earned him widespread acclaim. Rodri’s intelligence and composure make him a true maestro in midfield.
Mohamed Salah has been in sensational form in 2024, leading Liverpool’s charge for the Premier League title and their strong start in the Champions League. With 16 goals and 13 assists, Salah tops both the scoring and assists charts in the Premier League. His consistency, leadership, and match-winning displays have reaffirmed his status as one of the best players in the world. Salah’s agent even declared him the “best player in the world” after a stunning performance in November, and few would argue against it.
He may have been overlooked for the Ballon d’OR, but he is on our list of the best footballers in 2024. The Brazilian winger has had a phenomenal year, scoring twice in the Champions League semi-final against Bayern Munich and delivering a hat-trick against Borussia Dortmund. His relentless energy, skill, and ability to perform in the biggest moments have drawn comparisons to Pelé. Carlo Ancelotti has called him “the best in the world,” and his performances in 2024 have justified that praise. Vinícius’s combination of talent and determination makes him a deserving winner of this year’s award.
Which of these footballers was your favorite in 2024? Let us know in the comments below.