The 2023/24 season has been a peculiar one for soccer fans. For the first time in several years, the question surrounding the best player in the world does not hold a definite answer. The fascinating angle about the situation lies in the fact that the soccer community stands in harmony to conclude that neither Cristiano Ronaldo nor Lionel Messi belongs in the conversation anymore.
Over the last five years, Kylian Mbappe has firmly established himself as the next in line to the throne of Ronaldo and Messi. However, the latest Real Madrid signing has fallen off the pace in the last 12 months and is no longer the undisputed best player in the world. On the other hand, his future teammate in Madrid, Jude Bellingham, has potentially secured that prestige.
The magnificent rise to stardom for Jude Bellingham
As a teenager, Jude Bellingham was destined to have an illustrious career. Rising through the youth ranks at Birmingham City, Bellingham caught the eyes of Borussia Dortmund. It was in Germany where the midfielder made a real name for himself. At the age of 19, Real Madrid secured his signing. Although his talent was undeniable, no one could have expected how the first year in Spain would turn out for the Englishman.
Jude Bellingham grabbed 23 goals and 13 assists during the 2023/24 campaign for his club, making it one of the most memorable debut seasons in history. At just 21 years of age, few can question the claim of him being the best in the world. The Real Madrid fan favorite also played an integral role in England’s journey till the final in the recently concluded UEFA Euro 2024.
The end of Ronaldo and Messi’s dominance at the top
Soccer fans have been used to witnessing the Portuguese and the Argentinian grab individual accolades time after time in the last 15 years. The rivalry between the two has produced an era of dominance that has never occurred before. Nonetheless, the pair have seemingly left their best times behind them and no longer hold a duopoly over the Ballon d’Or.
This scenario makes Jude Bellingham’s profile and season to be even more prolific. The 21-year-old has been able to eclipse Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi during the 2023/24 season, an accomplishment only a few can boast in the sport’s history. Supporters are content to see the mantle passed to an individual who does not show any signs of stopping and is en route to sitting with the greatest players of all time.