Ezmiralda Franja, midfielder for the Albanian Women’s National Team and Vllaznia, is the 2024 “Golden Ball” winner. Competing for this prestigious award were also players Xhesika Ndoj (Apolonia), Mesuare Begallo (Gramshi), and Vanesa Levendi (Apolonia).
The distinguished trophy was presented to Ezmiralda Franja by AFA’s special guest, Gaizka Mendieta. The esteemed former footballer, who captained Valencia and played for Barcelona, Lazio, and Spain’s national team, congratulated the attendees and winners of this edition of the “Golden Ball.”
Mendieta stated: “It’s an honor to be here today. I congratulate the winners and encourage them to keep inspiring young generations. I congratulate the Association for its great work.”
Ezmiralda Franja wins this award for the first time, after being among the nominees in previous editions.
Overwhelmed with emotion, the talented midfielder said: “Today, I’m very happy. I never thought I would reach such heights when I started playing football. I thank the President of Vllaznia, Lazer Matija, and my teammates who made this possible. I dedicate this award to my family, especially my mother, who dreamed of becoming a footballer but couldn’t achieve it.”
