The prestigious Ballon d’Or for the best footballer in the world will be awarded today at a gala evening in Paris. Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema is the biggest favorite to win the trophy in its 66th edition.
For the first time in the history of the poll organized by the weekly France Football, the Golden Ball will not be awarded by calendar year, but by season. 34-year-old Benzema scored 44 goals in 46 competitive matches for Madrid in 2021/22 and helped him secure the Spanish title and triumph in the Champions League. The Lyon native was the top scorer in both competitions and in August won the UEFA Best Player in Europe award.
Among the thirty nominees for the Ballon d’Or, for the first time since 2005, last year’s poll winner and record holder with seven triumphs is missing, Lionel Messi, who has had a difficult season after moving from Barcelona to Paris Saint. -Germain.
In addition to the men’s category, the best footballer, the best under-21 player and the goalkeeper will also be announced.
