As the football season nears its climax, it’s time to take a look at some of the favorites for the Ballon d’Or 2025 award. And unlike the CR7 and Messi era, this time, the list is filled with surprises.
When Vini said “I’ll do it 10x if I have to” after losing the 2024 Ballon d’Or to Rodri, no one expected what would follow: a season where he might not even make the top 10, capped by a Champions League exit in the quarter-finals.
10. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)
When the Frenchman finally arrived at the Bernabéu after a long saga, many believed Madrid were building another Galácticos squad. But so far, things haven’t exactly clicked. They were humbled by Arsenal in the Champions League with a 5–1 aggregate loss. Yes, they won the Spanish Super Cup and FIFA Intercontinental Cup, but the possibility of missing out on both La Liga and the Champions League is a massive blow to his Ballon d’Or hopes.
9. Harry kane (Bayern)
Scoring goals and providing assists usually guarantees attention unless your name is Harry Kane. Despite leading the Bundesliga scoring chart, his “Tottenham curse” narrative persists. Bayern’s Champions League exit at the hands of Inter Milan doesn’t help either. While the Bundesliga might be coming, but that won’t push him higher than 9th.
8. Lautaro Martinez (Inter milan)
While other World Cup-winning teammates like Dibu Martínez have soaked up the spotlight, Lautaro has quietly delivered. He helped Inter win Serie A last season and now has a Champions League semi-final and a potential Serie A title waiting. If Inter pull off a double, expect his stock to rise fast.
7. Lamine yamal (barcelona)
Golden Boy 2024. Laureus Breakthrough 2025. This kid is different. Leading one of Europe’s most exciting front lines at just 17, Yamal is giving Barça fans flashbacks to the MSN era. Ballon d’Or podium in the near future? Inevitable. But for now, he is just in the top 10
6. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
He’s arguably in the form of his life. But despite dominating the Premier League, Salah’s performances on European nights haven’t matched the hype. The Premier League title may not be enough to be the best in the world.
5. Robert lewandowski (Barcelona)
Many thought his move to Barcelona was a retirement plan. At 36, he’s proving them wrong. Leading the La Liga golden boot race and gunning for a treble, Lewy is showing age is just a number and a Ballon d’Or podium isn’t out of reach.
4. Declan rice (Arsenal)
Some laughed at the price tag. But unlike £100M Grealish, Rice has delivered. He’s been the engine of Arsenal’s midfield, carrying them through a tough title race and a deep Champions League run. If Arsenal go all the way, his name will be up there.
3. raphina (Barcelona)
Be honest, you didn’t have him in your top 10 a few months ago. The former Leeds winger has come alive under Hansi Flick at Barça, turning into one of the most productive Brazilians in Europe. A treble could make this his breakout season.
2. Pedri González (Barcelona)
Everyone sees the goals, but few notice the man behind the curtain. Pedri is the heartbeat of Barça’s midfield, giving the attack the freedom to shine. If they complete the treble, he might just follow Rodri’s path to the Ballon d’Or.
1. Ousmane Dembélé (psg)
After years of injuries and inconsistency at Barcelona, his move to PSG has reignited his career. While Messi, Neymar, and Mbappé couldn’t deliver a Champions League for PSG, Dembélé just might. If he does, he’s a serious contender for the Ballon d’Or 2025 which is football’s biggest individual prize.
But with so many worthy contenders, who do you think truly deserves to lift the Ballon d’Or 2025?
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