Football is a sport where individual excellence can shine even amidst the fiercest competition. Throughout the seasons, many players stand out for their talent, effort, and dedication, but some manage to leave an indelible mark thanks to their extraordinary performances. In the 2024 season, several footballers have captured the world’s attention with impressive displays, overcoming obstacles and reaching new milestones in their careers.
In this article, we explore the 5 most outstanding footballers of the season, analyzing their success stories, contributions to their teams, and what makes them true icons of world football.
1. Lionel Messi (Inter Miami) – The Maestro’s Rebirth
Success story:
Lionel Messi’s return to American soccer has been one of the biggest events of the 2024 season. After years dominating in Europe with FC Barcelona and a brief stint at PSG, the Argentine star joined Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS), bringing a wave of excitement not only across the United States but around the world. Messi has become a central figure for the team, leading them to victory in several major tournaments, including the 2023 Leagues Cup, marking his first major achievement in U.S. soccer.
His influence on the field is undeniable—not only for his technical skill and vision but also for his ability to elevate the performance of every teammate. Throughout the season, Messi has once again shown why he is considered one of the greatest footballers of all time.
Key contributions:
- Goals and assists: Messi continues to lead offensively, scoring goals and providing crucial assists. His ability to decide matches and create opportunities remains consistent.
- Transforming the MLS: His arrival has had a transformative impact on the league, increasing competitiveness and global visibility. Messi has attracted more fans, sponsors, and media attention, raising the MLS’s profile worldwide.
What makes him outstanding: Messi’s leadership, humility, and ability to play brilliant football at 37 continue to inspire generations of players and fans. His story in Miami is a testament to his longevity and his ability to reinvent himself in new circumstances.
2. Kylian Mbappé (Paris Saint-Germain) – The Future Is Here
Success story:
At 25, Kylian Mbappé has cemented his status as one of the brightest stars in world football. During the 2024 season, the French striker has remained a key player for Paris Saint-Germain, demonstrating his ability to score goals and create decisive plays at critical moments. After a summer filled with speculation about his future, Mbappé stayed at PSG, continuing to grow as the team’s undisputed offensive leader.
Mbappé is known not only for his speed and incredible dribbling but also for his maturity on and off the pitch. Throughout the season, he has displayed excellent performance, guiding his team to key victories in Ligue 1 and European competitions.
Key contributions:
- Unstoppable goal scorer: Mbappé continues to be one of the season’s top scorers. His ability to find the back of the net in any situation makes him a constant threat to any defense.
- Leadership in key competitions: In the UEFA Champions League, Mbappé has been crucial for PSG’s progress, delivering decisive performances against top teams.
What makes him outstanding: Mbappé is not only scoring goals but also writing his own legend in world football. His ambition and desire to be the best in the world make him a role model for young players, with a global impact felt in every tournament.
3. Erling Haaland (Manchester City) – The Unstoppable Goal Machine
Success story:
Norwegian Erling Haaland has been a phenomenon in the 2024 season, establishing himself as one of the most effective and lethal goal scorers in world football. Since joining Manchester City, Haaland has continuously broken records. With his imposing physique, finishing ability, and knack for being in the right place at the right time, he has propelled his team to the top of the Premier League and been crucial in European competitions.
In 2024, Haaland has increased his goal tally, defying expectations and proving that his success was no accident. His smart movements, precision in tight spaces, and goal-scoring instinct make him indispensable for City.
Key contributions:
- Breaking goal records: Haaland continues his scoring streak, topping the Premier League charts and ranking among the leading scorers in the Champions League.
- Impact on Manchester City: Haaland has not only raised his team’s level but has also been the main reason City competes for every possible title.
What makes him outstanding: Haaland’s hunger for goals, adaptability to the Premier League, and competitive personality make him one of the most remarkable stars not just of the season but of the past decade.
4. Robert Lewandowski (FC Barcelona) – The Wisdom of the Expert
Success story:
After years of success with Bayern Munich, Robert Lewandowski left the Bundesliga to join FC Barcelona, where he has been one of the best players of the 2024 season. Despite the challenges of adapting to a new league, Lewandowski has shown why he is considered one of the finest forwards in modern football history.
With his ability to read the game, excellent technique, and incredible goal-scoring record, Lewandowski has been key in Barcelona’s attack. His leadership on and off the pitch, along with his consistency, has been essential for the team to compete domestically and internationally.
Key contributions:
- Offensive leader: Lewandowski has been pivotal in Barcelona’s attack, scoring important goals in La Liga and the Champions League.
- Mentor for young players: His experience and maturity have been crucial in guiding Barcelona’s young talents, making him a true leader in the locker room.
What makes him outstanding: Lewandowski demonstrates that experience and hard work can take a player to the top, even at an age considered advanced for a footballer. His story is a testament to perseverance and dedication.
5. Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City) – The Brain of the Game
Success story:
Kevin De Bruyne remains one of the most influential figures in world football, and his 2024 season has been another proof of his quality. The Belgian midfielder is the engine of Manchester City’s attack, not only for his goal-scoring ability but also for his unparalleled skill in creating plays and assisting teammates. His vision, passing precision, and tactical intelligence place him among the best in the world.
De Bruyne has been essential to his team’s success, guiding Manchester City through some of the toughest competitions and being the main orchestrator in many crucial victories.
Key contributions:
- Key assists: De Bruyne continues to rank among the top assist providers of the season, delivering decisive passes that lead to crucial goals.
- Control of the game: His ability to dictate the pace, make quick decisions, and execute complex plays with precision makes him a cornerstone for City.
What makes him outstanding: De Bruyne’s brilliance lies in his football intelligence and ability to make the game flow. His capacity to elevate the entire team makes him one of the most complete footballers of the season.
