The award will be determined by fan votes, input from national team captains and coaches, and media representatives.
The star-studded list of nominees includes a diverse range of talent from across the globe. Real Madrid, the reigning Champions League holders, have a strong representation, with Dani Carvajal, Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham, Toni Kroos, and Vinicius Jr all vying for the coveted award.
Bellingham is one of the top contenders after netting 23 goals and 11 assists to spearhead Los Blancos to the La Liga and UEFA Champions League double. He was also pivotal as England reached the final of the 2024 European Championship.
His partner in crime, Vinicius Jr, is also a prime candidate after a stellar domestic season in which he netted 24 goals and 11 assists. He scored a hat-trick to help beat Barcelona in the final of the Spanish Super Cup.
The Brazilian is still reeling. He felt robbed of the Ballon d’Or award, which went to Manchester City star Rodri.
Rodri is also up for this award and will look to pip Vinicius again. His teammate Erling Haaland, who led Man City to their fifth consecutive Premier League title with his goals, is also in contention.
Other notable nominees include Kylian Mbappe, Dani Carvajal, and Lionel Messi. Meanwhile, emerging talents like Florian Wirtz and Lamine Yamal have also earned their place on the shortlist after fantastic campaigns.
Dani Carvajal (Spain, Real Madrid)
Erling Haaland (Norway, Manchester City)
Federico Valverde (Uruguay, Real Madrid)
Florian Wirtz (Germany, Bayer Leverkusen)
Jude Bellingham (England, Real Madrid)
Kylian Mbappe (France, Paris Saint-Germain/Real Madrid)
Lamine Yamal (Spain, Barcelona)
Lionel Messi (Argentina, Inter Miami)
Rodri (Spain, Manchester City)
Toni Kroos (Germany, Real Madrid)
Vinicius Jr (Brazil, Real Madrid)
