The Overlooked Stars of the Ballon d'Or

Since 2014, the Ballon d'Or has seen its fair share of surprising nominees. While the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have dominated the headlines, there have been several under-the-radar players who have earned a spot on the prestigious shortlist. Here, we delve into some of these overlooked talents and their contributions to the beautiful game.

Scott McTominay: Napoli's Rising Star

Scott McTominay's journey from Manchester United to Napoli has been nothing short of remarkable. After being deemed surplus to requirements at Old Trafford, McTominay moved to Napoli for €30 million and quickly became a key player. In his debut season, he scored 12 goals and provided four assists, helping Napoli clinch the 2024-25 Serie A title. His performances earned him a place on the 2025 Ballon d'Or shortlist, a testament to his hard work and determination.

David Luiz: The Surprising Inclusion

David Luiz's inclusion in the 2014 Ballon d'Or shortlist came as a surprise to many. Fresh off a heartbreaking 7-1 defeat to Germany in the World Cup semifinals, Luiz moved from Chelsea to Paris Saint-Germain. Despite finishing low in the final vote, his inclusion highlighted his impact on both club and international stages.

Dimitri Payet: West Ham's Magician

Dimitri Payet's stellar performances for West Ham United in 2016 earned him a Ballon d'Or nomination. With 17 goals and 23 assists in 56 appearances, Payet was a standout player. Although he finished joint-17th in the vote, his contributions were undeniable.

Jamie Vardy: Leicester's Hero

Jamie Vardy played a pivotal role in Leicester City's miraculous Premier League title win in 2015-16. Scoring 24 goals in 36 league games, Vardy's inclusion on the Ballon d'Or shortlist was well-deserved. He finished above some of the game's biggest names, a testament to his incredible season.

João Félix: The Rising Star

João Félix's Ballon d'Or nomination in 2019 came during a transitional period in his career. After a breakthrough season at Benfica, Félix moved to Atlético Madrid for a record fee. Despite a slow start, his potential was evident, earning him a spot on the shortlist.

Dusan Tadic: From Southampton to Ajax

Dusan Tadic's move from Southampton to Ajax in 2019 proved to be a turning point in his career. Winning the Dutch Eredivisie and reaching the Champions League final, Tadic's performances earned him a Ballon d'Or nomination, a fitting recognition of his efforts.

César Azpilicueta: Chelsea's Dependable Leader

César Azpilicueta's leadership and consistency for Chelsea earned him a place on the 2021 Ballon d'Or shortlist. As part of the Champions League-winning team, Azpilicueta's contributions were crucial, even if he didn't attract any voting points.

Darwin Núñez: Liverpool's New Signing

Darwin Núñez's nomination in 2022 came on the back of a stellar season with Benfica. Despite a slow start at Liverpool, Núñez's potential was recognized, earning him a spot on the Ballon d'Or shortlist.

André Onana: Inter Milan's Safe Hands

André Onana's performances for Inter Milan in the 2022-23 season earned him a Ballon d'Or nomination. Despite a challenging debut season at Manchester United, Onana's contributions to Inter's success were undeniable.

Mats Hummels: Dortmund's Veteran Leader

Mats Hummels' return to the Ballon d'Or shortlist in 2024 was a testament to his enduring quality. Leading Borussia Dortmund to the Champions League final, Hummels' experience and leadership were key to their success.

Ademola Lookman: Atalanta's African Star

Ademola Lookman's performances for Atalanta earned him a place on the 2024 Ballon d'Or shortlist. With 24 goals and 16 assists in 52 league games, Lookman's impact was significant, culminating in a hat-trick in the Europa League final.

These players may not have won the Ballon d'Or, but their contributions to the game have been significant. Their inclusion on the shortlist is a reminder of the depth of talent in world football.