The Argentinian legend Lionel Messi, with 7 Ballon d’Ors already, seems to be the main favorite for another one in 2023. Can the young blood from Haaland and Mbappe can be real contenders for him?
The Ballon d’Or nominees were announced ahead of the ceremony, which will be on October 30 in France. Erling Haaland, Lionel Messi, Kevin de Bruyne, and Kylian Mbappe are some of the most noticeable names on the shortlist, while 5-time winner Cristiano Ronaldo didn’t get a nomination this time.
Here is how the best bookies in France see the odds for who will win the 2023 Ballon d’Or Award:
The Golden Ball Award for this year is basically between Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland. The Argentinian has won the 2022 World Cup, which increases his chances of winning a lot. Haaland had a super season with the Citizens, as they won the treble, with Erling scoring a stunning 52 goals.
Kevin De Bruyne and Rodri were the two most important players with Erling Haaland last season for Man City. Rodri scored the Champions League-winning goal for the Citizens, but their chances of winning the award are slim.
Kylian Mbappe was that close to winning the World Cup after scoring a hat trick in the final. If he had won the tournament, he would probably have been the Golden Ball favorite, but not so much now.
