The 2025 Ballon d’Or race is reaching its climax, with club performances taking centre stage in a season devoid of major international tournaments. As the UEFA Champions League final pits Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) against Inter Milan, players from these teams are primed to dominate the prestigious award. PSG’s Ousmane Dembele leads the pack, with his 33 goals and 12 assists, coupled with a Ligue 1 title and a potential Champions League triumph, making him the frontrunner. But he will face a stiff challenge from Barcelona's stars like Lamine Yamal and Raphina, given their exceptional performance in the domestic league. Check out the power rankings of Ballon d'Or 2025
1. Ousmane Dembele
Team: PSG
33 goals, 13 assists. Won Ligue 1. In UCL Final
Ousmane Dembele's explosive season with PSG marks him as a top Ballon d'Or contender. Scoring 33 goals and providing 13 assists, he was instrumental in securing Ligue 1. His flair and pace tormented defenses, while his contributions in the UEFA Champions League, where PSG reached the final, showcased his big-stage pedigree.
2. Lamine Yamal
Team: Barcelona
16 Goals, 25 Assists. Won Copa del Rey.
Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s teenage sensation, has taken the football world by storm. With 16 goals and 25 assists, his vision and creativity were pivotal in winning the Copa del Rey. At just 18, Yamal’s maturity, silky dribbling, and precise passing have drawn comparisons to legends. His ability to deliver in clutch moments, combined with his fearless approach against elite defences, sets him apart. A Ballon d'Or win would cement his meteoric rise as football’s brightest young star.
3. Raphinha
Team: Barcelona
37 goals, 25 assists. Won Copa del Rey.
Raphinha’s scintillating form for Barcelona has made him a Ballon d'Or frontrunner. His remarkable 37 goals and 25 assists powered Barcelona to Copa del Rey glory. The Brazilian winger’s lethal finishing, combined with his playmaking, terrorized defenses. Raphinha’s work rate, pressing, and ability to score in crucial moments defined his campaign.
4. Gianluigi Donnarumma
Team: PSG
12 clean sheets. Won Ligue 1. In UCL Final
Gianluigi Donnarumma’s commanding presence between the posts for PSG solidifies his Ballon d'Or candidacy. With 12 clean sheets, he anchored PSG’s Ligue 1 triumph and their run to the UEFA Champions League final. The Italian goalkeeper’s shot-stopping, reflexes, and composure under pressure were unmatched.
5. Mohamed Salah
Team: Liverpool
36 goals, 24 assists. Won Premier League.
Mohamed Salah’s relentless brilliance for Liverpool cements his Ballon d'Or credentials. Scoring 36 goals and adding 24 assists, he was the driving force behind Liverpool’s Premier League triumph. Salah’s speed, clinical finishing, and ability to create chances dismantled defenses. His consistency, work ethic, and knack for decisive goals in tight matches defined Liverpool’s campaign.
6. Pedri
Team: Barcelona
6 goals, 8 assists. Won Copa Del Rey
Pedri’s elegance and vision for Barcelona make him a Ballon d'Or dark horse. Despite a modest 6 goals and 8 assists, his influence in midfield was crucial to Barcelona’s Copa del Rey success. The 22-year-old Spaniard’s passing, dribbling, and game intelligence orchestrated attacks with poise.
7. Harry Kane
Team: Bayern Munich
41 goals, 12 assists. Won Bundesliga
Harry Kane’s prolific season with Bayern Munich makes him a Ballon d'Or favorite. Scoring 41 goals and adding 12 assists, he powered Bayern to the Bundesliga title. Kane’s lethal finishing, aerial prowess, and playmaking from deep roles redefined the striker position. His leadership and ability to score in high-stakes matches, including European ties, were unmatched
