Ballon d'Or 2018: Ranking the 3 favourites as per market value

The much-awaited individual trophy Ballon d'Or will be awarded to the best player in the world on 3rd December 2018. It is a dream of any football player to have the honor of lifting this prestigious trophy at least once in their life.

According to the reputed online publication Tuttosport, the nominated three man-shortlist for this prestigious trophy will consist of the players mentioned in this slideshow. Further, reports suggest that neither Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo will receive their 6th Ballon d'Or this year.

Hence, after ten long years of dominance, there will be a player other than Messi or Ronaldo who will finally get a chance to get the limelight on the podium. This report has undoubtedly increased the excitement and anxiety among football fans all over the world regarding who could beat the two wizards of football to win this silverware.

Let us rank the top 3 favorites for the Ballon d'Or 2018 as per their market value.

Stats Courtesy: https://www.transfermarkt.com

#3 Luka Modric (€25m)

SD Eibar v Real Madrid CF - La Liga

Current Market Value: €25m

Luka Modric has had a phenomenal year so far. Due to his brilliant performances individually both for Real Madrid as well as Croatia, he has established himself amongst the legends of the game. Being an intelligent playmaker, his precise passes, ability to shoot from long distance and the capability to make runs behind the opposition's defense makes him one of the toughest opponents to face against.

Modric has played a significant role in helping Real Madrid win three consecutive Champions League titles. Further, in the summer he led from the front and helped his country Croatia finish as runners-up at the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Due to his performances in the tournament, Modric was also awarded the FIFA Golden Ball.

Due to his age and being at the peak of his career, his current market value is €25m. Despite this, he is a top contender to win the Ballon d'Or this year.

#2 Raphael Varane (€80m)

France Training And Press Conference

Current Market Value: €80m

Raphael Varane has been one of the most surprising picks in the three-man shortlist. The last time a defender won the prestigious Ballon d'Or Award was in 2006 when Fabio Cannavaro lifted it after helping win the World Cup. Varane has played quite well for both Real Madrid and France. Due to his performances, Zidane replaced Pepe with him to partner with Ramos in the center of defense at the Santiago Bernabeu.

His defensive display alongside Samuel Umtiti, helped Hugo Lloris to keep four clean sheets and hence helped France to win the 2018 FIFA World Cup. At present, he is one of the best defenders in Europe and is always amongst the transfer speculations. His current market value which has jumped from €70m in May to €80m in July indicates the amount which he brings for Real Madrid and France.

#1 Kylian Mbappe (€180m)

SSC Napoli v Paris Saint-Germain - UEFA Champions League Group C

Current Market Value: €180m

Kylian Mbappe is one of the most amazing emerging talents in Europe at the moment. His scintillating pace, dribbling capabilities, calm and composed finishing are quite incredible to watch for the football fans over the globe.

His display for France, particularly against Argentina in the Round of 16 and Croatia in the finals showed the potential he possesses at the global stage. He was rightfully given the Best Young Player Award for his fabulous displays in the tournament.

At PSG, he is a part of a dangerous attacking trio consisting of Neymar, Cavani and himself. Due to his performances for both club as well as for the country, he has attracted the attention of top elite clubs in Europe such as Real Madrid.

His current market value which has jumped from €150m in July to €180m in October indicates the rise in his value. Hence, he is one of the leading candidates in this list to win the Ballon d'Or Award.