Italian Legend's Ballon D'Or Tip: Three From Real Madrid In The Running

Michael

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Post on Jul 02, 2025

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Italian Legend's Ballon d'Or Tip: Three from Real Madrid in the Running

The Ballon d'Or, football's most prestigious individual award, is fast approaching, and speculation is rife. Adding fuel to the fire, Italian football legend, Alessandro Nesta, has boldly predicted a Real Madrid clean sweep of the top three spots. This surprising assertion has sent shockwaves through the footballing world, igniting heated debates amongst fans and pundits alike.

Nesta, a former AC Milan and Italy defender renowned for his elegance and defensive prowess, didn't shy away from making a bold statement. In an exclusive interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, he declared his belief that three Real Madrid players – Karim Benzema, Vinicius Junior, and Luka Modrić – will dominate the Ballon d'Or podium.

Benzema's Undisputed Reign?

The inclusion of Karim Benzema is hardly surprising. His exceptional 2021-2022 season, culminating in a Champions League and La Liga double with Real Madrid, cemented his place as a frontrunner. Benzema's prolific goal-scoring record and all-around contributions solidified his status as one of the world's best strikers. Many consider his Ballon d'Or win last year a foregone conclusion, even if the competition is fierce. His consistent performances throughout the year, and particularly his Champions League heroics, make him a strong contender for a repeat win. Will he be able to maintain his dominance this year?

The Rising Stars: Vinicius Junior and Luka Modrić

Nesta's prediction that Vinicius Junior and Luka Modrić will complete the Real Madrid trifecta is more intriguing. Vinicius Junior’s electrifying pace, skillful dribbling, and crucial goals have transformed him into a global superstar. His performances throughout the Champions League campaign, particularly against Liverpool, highlighted his immense talent and potential.

Luka Modrić, a veteran midfielder, continues to defy age, showcasing remarkable technical ability and tactical awareness. His influence on Real Madrid's midfield remains undeniable. Despite his age, Modrić's unwavering consistency and leadership qualities make him a perpetual contender for individual accolades. His Champions League experience and crucial contributions to Real Madrid's success make him a dark horse in the Ballon d'Or race.

A Bold Prediction or Accurate Assessment?

Nesta's prediction isn't without its critics. Other players, such as Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland, boast impressive statistics and individual accolades. Messi's World Cup victory with Argentina significantly bolsters his claim, while Haaland's record-breaking goal-scoring season in the Premier League cannot be ignored. Nevertheless, Nesta's insight, coming from a legend of the game, warrants consideration.

Who do you think will win the Ballon d'Or? Let us know in the comments below!

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Keywords: Ballon d'Or, Real Madrid, Karim Benzema, Vinicius Junior, Luka Modrić, Alessandro Nesta, football, soccer, awards, predictions, Champions League, La Liga, Lionel Messi, Erling Haaland, football news, sports news.