Some believe that the eventual Ballon d'Or winner has already been decided. Others believe that the final hurdle is the most important part of the season. What is certain is that the UEFA Super Cup final in Tallinn tonight will help determine who wins the 2018 Ballon d'Or. Will it be Luka Modric or Antoine Griezmann?
A universal poll would make Cristiano Ronaldo odds-on favourite to win his sixth Ballon d'Or, however Portugal's poor World Cup performance may hinder his chances. Despite helping Real Madrid win their third consecutive UEFA Champions League the award may not be won by Ronaldo or Messi for the first time in ten seasons.
Ronaldo's move to join Serie A giants Juventus reduces the likelihood of the 33-year-old retaining the Ballon D'Or for the third time in a row. The UEFA Super Cup is the last major trophy in which players can win votes and impress international coaches and captains. Ronaldo not playing puts Modric and Griezmann at a strong advantage.
On paper Griezmann is the favourite, already having the 2018 FIFA World Cup and the UEFA Europa League in the bag. In addition, Griezmann scored and played well in both finals.
On the other hand, Luca Modric has a strong claim for the award. Modric captained the surprising World Cup finalists Croatia, with the team only losing 4-2 in the final to France. Modric was also at the heart of Real Madrid's midfield when 'Los Blancos' lifted the UEFA Champions League in Kiev. Modric's performances in Russia earned him the prestigious Golden Ball award, whereas Griezmann had to settle for the Bronze Ball behind Belgium's Eden Hazard.
Both players had undoubted success at the World Cup. Both Modric and Griezmann were awarded the Man of the Match award on three occasions, with Griezmann having that accolade after his performance in the final.
Griezmann is considered a slight favourite after his performance in Russia. It goes without saying that to finish amongst the top three best players in the world is an incredible achievement, given that Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have dominated for so long.