The footballing year of 2024 has been one of drama, brilliance, and unforgettable moments. From dominant displays to iconic goals and tactical masterclasses, the past 12 months have delivered football in its most thrilling form. As the year draws to a close, 365Scores honours the standout performers with our annual awards. Here, we present our Team of the Year, alongside the Best Player, Goal and Manager of 2024.
365Scores’ Awards of the Year
Team of the Year:
Goalkeeper: Andriy Lunin (Real Madrid)
Stepping into the spotlight at the Santiago Bernabéu, Andriy Lunin has seized his opportunity with both hands. The Ukrainian shot-stopper, covering for Thibault Courtois whilst injured, consistently delivered crucial saves, combining sharp reflexes with a commanding presence in the box. His performances in high-stakes matches were pivotal to Real Madrid’s domestic and continental successes, solidifying his place as one of Europe’s most impressive goalkeepers this year.
Left-Back: Alex Grimaldo (Bayer Leverkusen)
Alex Grimaldo has been one of the standout performers for Bayer Leverkusen, playing an instrumental role in their title-winning season and European campaigns Known for his overlapping runs, dangerous crosses, and precision from set pieces, Grimaldo has added an attacking flair to his defensive responsibilities. His impact on Leverkusen’s push for silverware this season has been undeniable.
Centre-Back: William Saliba (Arsenal)
A pillar of Arsenal’s defensive revolution under Mikel Arteta, William Saliba has blended youthful exuberance with remarkable composure. His positional awareness and impressive recovery pace thwarted some of the best attackers in the league, while his assured distribution set the tone for the Gunners’ build-up play. Saliba’s calm authority at the back has been key to Arsenal’s resurgence both domestically and in Europe.
Centre-Back: Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid)
Antonio Rudiger has brought a blend of aggression, composure, and versatility to Real Madrid’s backline this season. His commanding presence in defence played a significant role in Real Madrid’s successful campaigns, particularly in the Champions League. Rudiger’s warrior-like mentality and resilience in crucial matches have made him a fan favourite at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Happy Birthday to Antonio Rudiger! 🎈🇩🇪
— 365Scores (@365Scores) March 3, 2024
Is he one of the best defenders in todays football?#Rudiger #RealMadrid #Roma #Chelsea #LaLiga #365Scores pic.twitter.com/FNPL85aawg
Right-Back: Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid)
A stalwart in Real Madrid’s defence, Dani Carvajal maintained his position as one of the most consistent right-backs in world football. He opened the scoring in the Champions League Final with a sensational header as Real went on to win. He also was critical as Spain lifted the Euro 2024 trophy. Renowned for his tenacity and tireless work rate, Carvajal combined defensive solidity with lung-busting overlaps down the flank. His pinpoint crosses and leadership qualities continue to be invaluable to Carlo Ancelotti’s setup, both in La Liga and on the biggest European stages.
Dani Carvajal won't risk the possibility to face Real Madrid if he ever leaves thr club and thus, if that happens, he'll leave European football pic.twitter.com/6G8viA6wZ3
— 365Scores (@365Scores) December 28, 2024
Centre-Midfielder: Rodri (Manchester City)
Rodri has been the metronome in Manchester City’s all-conquering midfield. Calm under pressure and relentless in his ball recovery, he has been the glue holding Pep Guardiola’s system together. With another year of silverware added to his collection, including another Premier League title, Rodri’s importance to City cannot be overstated.
Vinícius wins FIFA The Best & Globe Soccer Best Player, while Rodri grabs the Ballon d'Or 🔥
— 365Scores (@365Scores) December 28, 2024
Dribbling magic or midfield maestro—who truly deserves the crown of the world's best? 🏆⚽
Let the debate begin! 👀 pic.twitter.com/zUUng1LcEH
Centre-Midfielder: Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
In his debut season at Real Madrid, Jude Bellingham has taken La Liga and the Champions League by storm. The English midfielder’s blend of technical brilliance, physical dominance, and attacking intent has made him one of the most influential players in Europe. His performances in big matches have been nothing short of extraordinary, and his rapid adaptation to life in Madrid speaks volumes about his talent.
Left-Winger: Vinicius Jr (Real Madrid)
Vinicius Jr has once again proven himself as one of the most electrifying talents in world football. His blistering pace, trickery, and goal-scoring ability have been central to Real Madrid’s successes this year. Whether in La Liga or on the Champions League stage, Vinicius has consistently delivered moments of brilliance, further solidifying his status as one of football’s brightest stars.
Striker: Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
A lethal force in the final third, Mohamed Salah has continued to dazzle for Liverpool. The Egyptian King’s combination of blistering speed, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing have kept the Reds in contention for major honours. Especially under Arne Slot, Salah has taken his performances to a new level, with 17 goals and 13 assists in the Premier League before the turn of the new year. Salah’s ability to create moments of magic out of nowhere makes him one of the most feared forwards in world football—a status he has firmly upheld in 2024.
Striker: Lautaro Martinez (Inter Milan)
Lautaro Martinez has spearheaded Inter Milan’s attack with power, precision, and relentless energy. Equally adept at holding up play and running in behind, he has delivered a steady flow of goals and assists, proving instrumental in the Nerazzurri’s domestic and European campaigns. He also scored the all-important winning goal as Argentina beat Colombia in the final of the 2024 Copa America, becoming the top scorer of the tournament as well as the capocannoniere of the Serie A for the 2023-24 season. Martinez’s commitment and versatility make him a nightmare for opposing defenders and a cornerstone of Inter’s future success.
Right-Winger: Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
At just 17 years old, Lamine Yamal has become one of football’s most exciting prospects. His performances for Barcelona have defied his age, with breathtaking dribbles, intelligent decision-making, and a flair for the extraordinary. Yamal’s rise has been meteoric, and he is already showing signs of being a generational talent.
The complete 365Scores Best XI of 2024
Player: Vinicius Jr
For his consistency, match-winning displays, and irrepressible flair, Vinicius Jr stands out as the premier player of 2024. Scoring in the Champions League Final showed that he can do it on the biggest of stages. Time and again, he has proven himself in the grandest matches —delivering goals, assists, and unstoppable dribbles. His continued evolution under the bright lights of Madrid’s iconic stadium cements Vinicius’s place among the very best in the game.
Young Player: Lamine Yamal
At just 17, Lamine Yamal has achieved feats that most players can only dream of. The young Barcelona winger has been a revelation, delivering mature performances on some of football’s biggest stages. His ability to handle pressure, make intelligent decisions, and showcase raw talent has marked him as a generational prospect. With every passing match, Yamal continues to grow, and his ceiling seems almost limitless.
Goal: Lamine Yamal vs. France
Euro 2024 Semi-Final, where the biggest stars shine brightest. When Lamine Yamal stepped up against France, few expected what would happen next. Picking up the ball outside the box, he glided past two defenders before unleashing an unstoppable curling shot into the top corner. The crowd erupted, commentators were left speechless, and the replay quickly went viral worldwide. In a moment where legends are made, Yamal delivered with astonishing poise and flair.
A more lethal version of Lamine Yamal is coming up in 2025? 😱 pic.twitter.com/NNpVbPvEqf
— 365Scores (@365Scores) December 28, 2024
Manager: Luis de la Fuente
Stepping into the international arena with confidence and a modern tactical approach, Luis de la Fuente masterminded a stunning Euro 2024 campaign with Spain, showcasing his ability to unite and inspire a squad filled with both veterans and young prospects. Under his guidance, the Spanish national team has rediscovered its attacking identity and tactical cohesion, culminating in memorable victories on the biggest stage.
By Nicky Helfgott – NickyHelfgott1 on X (Twitter)
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