The Ballon d’Or 2025, football’s most prestigious individual award, will be presented on September 22, 2025, at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris. This year’s award will recognize the best male footballer based on performances from the 2024–25 season. Since there were no major international tournaments during this season, club performance will be the most important factor.
Here’s a look at the leading candidates based on their performances so far:
1. Ousmane Dembélé (Paris Saint-Germain)
- Age: 28, Position: Winger
- Achievements: Dembele has scored 33 goals, 13 assists, and won Ligue 1 and Trophee des Champions PSG in the 2024/25 season. Delivered impressive performances in both domestic league and Champions League matches.
- Why he’s a top contender: Dembélé has stayed injury-free and consistent this season, and if PSG win the Champions League final, his chances will increase significantly. Dembele could be crowned Ballon d’Or if PSG defeats Inter Milan to lift the UCL Cup.
2. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
- Age: 17, Position: Winger
- Achievements: Played a key role in Barcelona’s triumph in La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Supercopa de España, contributing 18 goals and 25 assists across 55 games.
- Why he’s a top contender: At just 17, Yamal is having a breakthrough season. His creativity, consistency, and major role in Barcelona’s domestic treble make him one of the strongest candidates.
3. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
- Age: 32, Position: Forward
- Achievements: Played a vital role in Liverpool’s Premier League title win this season, finishing as the league’s top scorer with 29 goals.
- Why he’s a contender: Salah has been Liverpool’s leader and top scorer. However, Liverpool’s early exit from the Champions League may hurt his chances.
Also read: Premier League 2024-25 Prize Money: How Much Each Club Earned
4. Raphinha (Barcelona)
- Age: 28, Position: Winger
- Achievements: Played a major role in Barcelona’s treble-winning season, Delivered 34 goals and 25 assists in all competitions
- Why he’s a contender: With such high numbers and silverware, Raphinha has been one of the best performers in Europe this season.
5. Lautaro Martínez (Inter Milan)
- Age: 27, Position: Striker
- Achievements: As captain, led his team to the Champions League final. Consistent top scorer in Italy, scored 22 goals and 7 assists.
- Why he’s a contender: Lautaro’s leadership and finishing have been key to Inter’s dominance in Serie A. However, his lack of European success this season could hold him back.
Who is most likely to win?
Standing first in the ranking, Dembélé might win the Ballon d’Or this year. A standout performance in the Champions League final for PSG could secure him the Ballon d’Or. The final games of the season, especially in the Champions League, will be critical in deciding who takes home the golden ball.
Also, Lamine Yamal is one the strongest candidate. Despite his young age, his incredible stats, major trophies, and importance to Barcelona make him a standout. If he continues performing at this level and Barcelona go far in Europe next season, he could become the youngest ever Ballon d’Or winner.
When is the Ballon d’Or 2025?
- Date: September 22, 2025
- Place: Théâtre du Châtelet, Paris
- Criteria: Based on club performances in the 2024–25 season
The race for the 2025 Ballon d’Or is tighter than ever before. With multiple top players delivering exceptional seasons, the final weeks, especially in Europe, will be decisive. Whether it’s youth like Yamal, or experienced stars like Salah and Dembélé, fans can expect an exciting finish to the Ballon d’Or race.
Written by Kinjal Walantra
