For the first time in 21 years, neither Lionel Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo has been included on the Ballon d’Or shortlist, with Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, and Cole Palmer among those featured.

For the first time in 21 years, neither Lionel Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo has received a nomination for the Ballon d’Or.

As these football legends step aside, a new wave of talent is set to take their place after years of dominance in this prestigious annual award.

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Messi holds the record with eight awards, including last year’s after leading Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022.

In contrast, Ronaldo has won the award five times, with his last victory in 2017.

While he missed out on a nomination last year after transferring to Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, this year marks the first time since 2003 that both icons are absent from the nominee list.

Only Luka Modric and Karim Benzema have managed to interrupt the Messi-Ronaldo dominance, winning the award in 2018 and 2022, respectively.

As their European careers wind down, with Ronaldo currently playing in Saudi Arabia and Messi showcasing his talent with Inter Miami in the MLS, it signals a new era for the prestigious honor.

The recently released 30-man shortlist features a host of dazzling stars.

England’s Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, and Cole Palmer all secured nominations.

Additionally, new Real Madrid sensation Kylian Mbappe, who finished third last year, is also on the list.

Last year’s runner-up, Erling Haaland, is in contention again after clinching the Premier League Golden Boot for the second consecutive year.

Vinicius Jnr from Real Madrid is among the frontrunners, having played a pivotal role in securing both La Liga and the Champions League titles.

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Bellingham was instrumental in Real Madrid’s triumphs and is also in the running.

Spanish internationals and Euro 2024 champions Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams are part of the nominations as well.

Other notable nominees include Granit Xhaka and the recently retired Toni Kroos.

While Messi is absent this year, his Argentina teammates Emiliano Martinez and Lautaro Martinez did receive nods following their Copa America victory.

The Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled for October 28.

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