Why is Christian Pulisic not nominated for the 2024 Ballon d’Or?

France Football confirmed the names of the thirty players shortlisted for the 2024 Men’s Ballon d’Or award in early September with Manchester City’s Rodri and Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. leading the way in the favourite to scoop the award category.

Despite the shortlist, undoubtedly featuring some of the finest players on the planet, there were a few omissions that raised a couple of eyebrows with Christian Pulisic included in that listing.

The USMNT and Milan player joined the likes of Mo Salah, Luka Modric (2018 Ballon d’Or winner), Rodrygo, Jamal Musiala, Angel Di Maria, and Virgil Van Dijk as players who failed to make the cut with Real Madrid winger Rodrygo particularly annoyed about being left out.

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Pulisic is 26 now and entering the peak years of his career and the US star has rediscovered his form in Serie A after a disappointing spell with Premier League side Chelsea. Many felt that his time at Stamford Bridge has toughened the winger and Milan are reaping the rewards.

The US player was instrumental in securing the 2023 CONCACAF Nations League title for the USMNT and was also awarded the Player of the Tournament. His recent performances in the Champions League will also stand him well of reminding many of the promise that he once offered and US boss Mauricio Pochettino will see Pulisic as one of his key players as the Argentine prepares the team for the 2026 World Cup.

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Ballon d’Or voting

For the 68th edition of the awards ceremony, founders France Football have teamed up with UEFA for an event celebrating the best in the Game based on performances over the season, from August 1, 2023, to July 31, 2024.

Individual and team performances, achievements along with class and fair play are the key criteria used by an international jury of 100 specialised journalists when voting on the best players.