Top 5 Contenders for the 2023 Ballon d’OrTop 5 Contenders for the 2023 Ballon d’Or The Ballon d’Or, awarded to the best player in football, is one of the most prestigious individual honors in sports. Here are the top 5 contenders for the 2023 award: 1. Karim Benzema (Real Madrid) The reigning Ballon d’Or holder is a strong favorite to retain his title. In 2022, Benzema led Real Madrid to the Champions League and La Liga titles, scoring crucial goals in both competitions. His 44 goals in all competitions demonstrate his exceptional finishing ability. 2. Kylian Mbappé (Paris Saint-Germain) The French superstar has been in sensational form this season, scoring 25 goals in 25 Ligue 1 appearances. Mbappé is a threat with his pace, dribbling skills, and clinical finishing. He played a key role in PSG’s Ligue 1 title triumph and is one of the favorites to win the World Cup in Qatar. 3. Lionel Messi (Paris Saint-Germain) Despite a disappointing debut season with PSG, Messi has found his rhythm this campaign. The Argentine maestro has scored 11 goals in Ligue 1 and remains a constant threat with his vision, passing, and ability to create chances. Messi’s World Cup performance, if Argentina excels, could boost his Ballon d’Or chances. 4. Erling Haaland (Manchester City) The Norwegian goal machine has taken the Premier League by storm since joining Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund. Haaland has scored 26 goals in 21 league appearances, shattering records and terrorizing defenses with his pace, power, and clinical instincts. His goalscoring prowess will be crucial for City’s title aspirations and could earn him a place on the Ballon d’Or podium. 5. Robert Lewandowski (FC Barcelona) The Polish striker is no stranger to the Ballon d’Or race, having finished in the top three for the past two years. Lewandowski left Bayern Munich for Barcelona this season and has already scored 18 goals in La Liga. His exceptional goalscoring record, consistency, and professionalism make him a strong contender for the award.
