“Thierry Henry, Jamie Carragher, and Micah Richards Stun with Unexpected Pick for 2024 Ballon d’Or Winner”

“Thierry Henry, Jamie Carragher, and Micah Richards Reveal Surprise Favorite for 2024 Ballon d’Or”

The trio provided their picks while covering Tuesday evening’s Champions League matches.

Jamie Carragher, Thierry Henry, and Micah Richards have each shared their choice for who should win the 2024 Ballon d’Or, the prestigious award given annually to the world’s best player. The ceremony is set to take place at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris on Monday, 28 October, with several top names in attendance.

Both Henry and Richards chose Manchester City midfielder Rodri, despite his long-term anterior cruciate ligament injury, which could keep him sidelined for the remainder of the season. Henry emphasized the importance of midfielders, calling Rodri the heart of Manchester City and noting his triumph with Spain at the Euros.

Carragher, however, opted for Real Madrid star Vini Jr, especially after his second-half hat-trick in Madrid’s 5-2 comeback victory over Borussia Dortmund. Carragher acknowledged that while defensive or holding midfielders rarely win the Ballon d’Or, attacking players like Vini Jr tend to be favored because of their ability to excite fans and command big transfer fees.

Richards agreed with Henry’s selection of Rodri, insisting the midfielder deserves the honor for last season’s performances.

Although Vini Jr is currently the favorite for the award after his key role in Real Madrid’s La Liga and Champions League double, Henry pointed out that the winger’s underwhelming display at the Copa America influenced his own decision not to pick the Brazilian.

Still, Henry admitted Vini Jr is a worthy contender for the prestigious accolade.