Year in Review: How did Messi, Ronaldo and other top stars perform in 2024? | OneFootball

As 2024 draws to a close, the calendar year has been filled with moments of brilliance and challenges for some of the biggest names in football.

From Lionel Messi’s continued excellence to Erling Braut Haaland’s dip in form, here’s a look at how the top stars have fared in 2024, with a focus on key performances.

Cristiano Ronaldo – Struggles Amid Transition

Cristiano Ronaldo’s year has been marked by a notable decline in form.

After moving to Al-Nassr in 2022, the Portuguese forward has struggled to replicate his former brilliance, both for club and country.

His performances with Portugal at the 2024 European Championship were far from his best, and he has failed to lead Al-Nassr to major silverware.

While he remains a solid contributor in the Saudi Pro League, his influence has waned as he faces competition from younger, more dynamic talents.

Verdict: Underachieved. Ronaldo’s performances have been underwhelming in 2024, highlighting the challenges of his later career.

Lionel Messi: A Year of Consolidation

This was a year of consolidation for Messi. Following his World Cup triumph in 2022, Messi continued to lead Argentina, steering them to victory in the Copa America.

His influence wasn’t confined to international success. Messi transformed Inter Miami, guiding them into contention in Major League Soccer, scoring 23 goals and providing 13 assists in just 25 appearances.

His arrival not only raised the profile of the club but also helped them reach the final stages of competitions they had previously struggled to contend in.

Verdict: Messi’s continued excellence for Miami and Argentina in 2024 further solidified his status as one of the greatest players of all time. His ability to elevate his teams, no matter the competition, remains unparalleled.

Mohamed Salah – The Season of His Life

Mohamed Salah is having the best season of his career, and 2024 has seen him at his very best.

The Egyptian winger has been sensational, bagging 17 goals and seven assists in the Premier League to lead Liverpool’s charge at the top of the table.

Salah’s consistent brilliance has been crucial to Liverpool’s success under manager Arne Slot, with his influence only growing stronger.

Not only is Salah continuing to defy age, but he is also enjoying his most productive season to date, with performances that are setting him apart as one of the world’s best.

Verdict: Overachieved. Salah’s 2024 has been spectacular, solidifying his place among the world’s elite.

Vinicius Junior – FIFA Men’s Player of the Year

Vinicius Junior has had an extraordinary 2024, cementing his place among the top players in world football.

His performances for Real Madrid were pivotal in their La Liga and Champions League triumphs.

The Brazilian winger’s dazzling skills and match-winning ability earned him the prestigious FIFA Men’s Player of the Year award in December, further underscoring his rise to stardom.

With 24 goals across all competitions and crucial contributions in big matches, including a goal in the Champions League final, Vinicius has become one of football’s most exciting players.

Verdict: Overachieved. Vinicius’s rise to prominence has been a highlight of 2024, capped by his FIFA award.

Rodri – Triumph and Injury Setback

Rodri’s 2024 was marked by success but also a crucial absence.

The Spanish midfielder played a key role in Manchester City’s historic fourth consecutive Premier League title win, with his dominant presence in midfield central to their success.

However, a significant injury in September left City struggling in his absence, with their performances noticeably deteriorating without him.

Despite his absence, the impact of Rodri’s influence on the team was clear, and his performances for Spain at Euro 2024 further solidified his importance.

His Ballon d’Or win in October recognised his remarkable contributions to both club and country, proving just how much City missed him during his time on the sidelines.

Verdict: Overachieved. Even with the injury setback, Rodri’s impact remained undeniable.

Erling Braut Haaland – A Mixed Year

Haaland’s 2024 has been a mixed one. After a blistering start to the year, scoring prolifically in the Premier League and Champions League, the Norwegian striker suffered a dip in form.

His goalscoring was inconsistent during the second half of the year, with just four goals in 14 appearances since his early-season surge.

Despite this, Haaland still remains one of the most dangerous forwards in world football and a key figure for Man City.

Verdict: Underachieved. Haaland’s goal drought in the latter part of 2024 has raised questions, although his overall contribution remains significant.

Jude Bellingham – A Rising Star Despite Goal Drought

Jude Bellingham has continued his meteoric rise in 2024, solidifying his reputation as one of the world’s brightest young talents.

The 21-year-old was crucial in Madrid’s La Liga and Champions League successes, contributing significantly in attack and midfield.

Despite a dip in his goalscoring form, Bellingham’s overall impact on the team has remained immense.

His leadership, creativity and work ethic continue to make him indispensable to Madrid.

Verdict: Overachieved, but with a dip in goalscoring. While his recent goal drought raises questions, Bellingham’s all-around contributions have kept him at the top of his game.

Bukayo Saka – A Stellar Year Cut Short

Bukayo Saka enjoyed a wonderful 2024 until a hamstring injury in December curtailed his season.

The Arsenal winger was a standout performer for both club and country, contributing significantly to Arsenal’s Premier League challenge and playing a pivotal role in England’s international campaigns.

Saka’s technical ability, vision and consistency were key factors. Unfortunately, his promising form was interrupted by the injury, which has ruled him out for several weeks.

Verdict: Overachieved. Saka’s performances in 2024 were outstanding, and though his season was curtailed by injury, his impact remains undeniable.