The nominees for the 2025 Ballon d'Or have officially been unveiled, bringing an exciting new wave of talent to the forefront of football. Among the standout contenders are rising stars Lamine Yamal, Ousmane Dembélé, and Raphinha, indicating a refreshing shift in the landscape of the sport as we enter a new era—absent the dominance of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ballon d'Or Nominees Are Announced For 2025—Here Are The 10 Major Contenders To Win The Award
1. Ousmane Dembele
Club: Paris Saint-Germain
Ousmane Dembélé has emerged as a leading candidate for the 2025 Ballon d'Or, spearheading PSG's historic Champions League triumph. Playing as a central forward, he scored 37 goals and provided 16 assists across 49 appearances, including 8 goals and 6 assists in the Champions League. His pivotal role in PSG's treble (Ligue 1, Champions League, Coupe de France) and Club World Cup final run showcases his consistency and flair, making him a frontrunner.
2. Lamine Yamal
Club: Barcelona
At just 18, Lamine Yamal has captivated the football world with his performances for Barcelona, contributing to their domestic treble (La Liga, Copa del Rey, Supercopa de España). He recorded 21 goals and 26, shining in key matches like El Clásico and the Champions League semi-finals. His standout UEFA Nations League displays, including a brace against France, bolster his case to become the youngest Ballon d'Or winner ever.
3. Vitinha
Club: Paris Saint-Germain
Vitinha's metronomic midfield play was instrumental in PSG's historic quadruple, including their first Champions League title. He also helped Portugal win the UEFA Nations League. With consistent performances across competitions, Vitinha's ability to control games and deliver in high-stakes moments has earned him a top-five ranking.
4. Raphinha
Club: FC Barcelona
Raphinha’s stellar 2024-25 season saw him score 39 goals and provide 25 assists across all competitions, playing a key role in Barcelona’s La Liga title and domestic treble. His electrifying performances in attack, alongside Yamal and Lewandowski, earned him praise despite Barcelona’s Champions League semi-final exit. Raphinha’s remarkable goal-scoring output and consistency make him a strong contender, though his lack of European silverware may temper his chances.
5. Mohamed Salah
Club: Liverpool
Mohamed Salah led Liverpool to the Premier League title, finishing as the league’s top scorer with 29 goals. His leadership and clinical finishing across all competitions underscored his importance. Despite Liverpool’s early Champions League exit, Salah’s individual brilliance and consistent performances earned him 43 votes in World Soccer’s polls, the highest of any player. His lack of European success may hinder his Ballon d’Or bid.
6. Kylian Mbappé
Club: Real Madrid
Kylian Mbappé’s first season at Real Madrid yielded 46 goals and 7 assists in 56 appearances, showcasing his lethal finishing. However, Real Madrid’s struggles, losing La Liga to Barcelona and exiting the Champions League to Arsenal, have diminished his Ballon d'Or prospects. Despite his individual excellence, Mbappé’s lack of major team trophies this season has seen him drop in rankings, though his talent keeps him in contention.
7. Achraf Hakimi
Club: Paris Saint-Germain
Country: Morocco
Achraf Hakimi’s dynamic performances as a right-back were crucial to PSG’s Champions League and treble-winning campaign. His defensive solidity and attacking contributions, including taming top wingers like Salah and Yamal, earned him the nomination.
