“I’d be lying if I said no individual awards matter to me” - Jamal Musiala makes feelings clear after being snubbed from 2024 Ballon d’Or shortlist
Jamal Musiala has opened up on missing out on a place in the Ballon d'Or nominees list this year. The 21-year-old is one of the rising stars in European football and has been outstanding for Bayern Munich of late.
Musiala registered 12 goals and eight assists from 38 games across competitions last season. However, the Bavarians' failure to win any trophy, coupled with Germany's poor showing at Euro 2024, perhaps hurt the youngster's chances.
Speaking recently, as cited by The Guardian’s Rob Draper, Musiala hinted that he dreams of winning the Ballon d'Or.
“I’d be lying if I said no individual awards matter to me. I think everyone growing up wants to win an individual award of some kind. [But] the most important thing is, we had a tough season last season and we need to do better this season. The main focus is on winning trophies and everything else will come when the time is right,” said Musiala.
Musiala rose through the ranks at Chelsea before leaving Stamford Bridge in 2020 to Bayern Munich. He has since established himself as a first-team regular at the Allianz Arena.
This season, the German midfielder has already registered three goals and three assists under Vincent Kompany. If he continues his good form, Musiala will eventually end up among the nominees for Ballon d'Or and could even win the award some day. The player's contract with the Bavarians expires in 2026 and recent reports have suggested that multiple clubs are eyeing him with interest.
The Ballon d'Or will have a first-time winner this year
The Ballon d'Or 30-man shortlist doesn't include reigning champion Lionel Messi as well as Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric or Karim Benzema this year. That means that the world will see a new champion being crowned on October 28 at the Theatre du Chatelet.
Vinicius Junior is the frontrunner for the coveted award after a blistering campaign with Real Madrid. The Brazilian registered 24 goals and 11 assists from 39 games across competitions last season.
His efforts were key to Los Blancos winning the league, the Champions League and the Supercopa de Espana. However, the 24-year-old failed to impress with his nation at Copa America 2024.
Another favorite for the Ballon d'Or this year is Rodri, who guided Manchester City to a record fourth consecutive Premier League title last season. The Spaniard then helped La Roja lift the Euro 2024, cementing his status as one of the best in the game.