As anticipation builds for the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony, the race for football’s most prestigious individual honor has taken an intriguing twist. With a host of standout performers across Europe, this year’s rankings have tightened significantly—especially after Lamine Yamal’s recent setback in the UEFA Nations League final.
From PSG’s historic Champions League triumph to Liverpool’s Premier League resurgence and Barcelona’s domestic dominance, the contenders have all made compelling cases. But as the dust settles on a thrilling season, it’s Ousmane Dembele who leads the pack.
Here’s a detailed look at the current top 10 Ballon d’Or contenders:
10. Achraf Hakimi (PSG)
Stats: 11 goals, 15 assists, 21 clean sheets
Trophies: UEFA Champions League, Ligue 1, Coupe de France, Trophée des Champions
A pillar of PSG’s defense and a constant threat going forward, Hakimi delivered big moments in Europe and maintained top form across all competitions.
9. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (PSG)
Stats: 14 goals, 11 assists
Trophies: UEFA Champions League, Ligue 1, Serie A, Coupe de France
The Georgian winger sparkled for both Napoli and PSG. His flair and key contributions in the Champions League elevate his Ballon d’Or claim.
8. Desire Doue (PSG)
Stats: 15 goals, 16 assists
Trophies: UEFA Champions League, Ligue 1, Coupe de France, Trophée des Champions
Doue announced himself on the world stage this season, including a brilliant Champions League final display and match-winning cup final performances.
7. Nuno Mendes (PSG)
Stats: 7 goals, 12 assists, 13 clean sheets
Trophies: UEFA Champions League, Ligue 1, Coupe de France, Trophée des Champions, Nations League
From locking down Europe’s best wingers to scoring crucial goals, Mendes played a major role in PSG and Portugal’s trophy-laden campaigns.
6. Vitinha (PSG)
Stats: 7 goals, 6 assists
Trophies: UEFA Champions League, Ligue 1, Coupe de France, Trophée des Champions, Nations League
Often compared to Xavi, the Portuguese midfielder dictated play for PSG and shone on the international stage in Portugal’s Nations League triumph.
5. Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid)
Stats: 45 goals, 7 assists
Trophies: UEFA Super Cup, Intercontinental Cup
Mbappe delivered another sensational individual season, but Real Madrid’s failure to claim major titles diminished his chances at the top spot.
4. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
Stats: 36 goals, 24 assists
Trophies: Premier League
Revitalized under new leadership, Salah drove Liverpool to a league title. However, early exits from European competitions weigh against his Ballon d’Or hopes.
3. Raphinha (Barcelona)
Stats: 39 goals, 25 assists
Trophies: La Liga, Copa del Rey, Supercopa de España
Barcelona’s most reliable attacking force, Raphinha’s incredible stats and decisive performances in a domestic treble season have placed him firmly in contention.
2. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
Stats: 21 goals, 26 assists
Trophies: La Liga, Copa del Rey, Supercopa de España
The teenage sensation has lit up Spanish football, becoming Barcelona’s brightest talent. But the Nations League final defeat slightly dents his momentum.
1. Ousmane Dembele (PSG)
Stats: 35 goals, 15 assists
Trophies: UEFA Champions League, Ligue 1, Coupe de France, Trophée des Champions
Dembele finally fulfilled his vast potential with a season of elite-level consistency and game-winning brilliance, spearheading PSG’s historic European campaign. He now stands as the frontrunner for the 2025 Ballon d’Or.
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