The countdown to football’s most glamorous night is underway, and the Ballon d’Or 2025 rankings reveal a race like no other. After years dominated by Messi and Ronaldo, this year’s shortlist is fresh, fierce, and filled with new heroes ready to seize the Golden Ball in Paris this September.
Dembele stands tall despite late slip
Ousmane Dembele’s Club World Cup final defeat didn’t dent his status as the clear frontrunner. The PSG winger exploded this season with decisive goals at Anfield and the Emirates, and his creative genius, including two assists in the Champions League final, capped a treble‑winning campaign. With 37 goals and 16 assists, Dembele has finally transformed promise into power, making him the player to beat in the Ballon d’Or 2025 rankings.
Yamal: the teenager chasing history
At just 17, Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal has dazzled La Liga and Europe alike. His 21 goals and 26 assists led Barca to a domestic treble, and his semi‑final heroics against Inter Milan turned heads worldwide. No player has ever won the Ballon d’Or before turning 21, but Yamal is rewriting what’s possible.
Salah’s comeback and the Premier League crown
Liverpool’s Mo Salah returned to his brilliant best, guiding the Reds to a dominant Premier League title with 36 goals and 24 assists. But Champions League disappointment saw his Ballon d’Or odds fade late. Still, Salah remains Africa’s biggest hope of a first Golden Ball since George Weah in 1995.
Mbappe, Raphinha, and Barcelona’s charge
Kylian Mbappe delivered trademark moments for Real Madrid – including a stunning hat‑trick against Manchester City – but a trophyless season at club level damaged his claim. Meanwhile, Raphinha became Barcelona’s most decisive forward, netting 39 goals and 25 assists as the Blaugrana swept La Liga, Copa del Rey, and the Supercopa. His raw numbers keep him firmly in the Ballon d’Or 2025 rankings conversation.
PSG’s rising gems: Doue, Vitinha, and Hakimi
Desire Doue, still only 19, stepped up in PSG’s biggest moments, including the Champions League final. Midfield maestro Vitinha anchored the side with calm authority and added the Nations League title with Portugal. Achraf Hakimi was everywhere: defending, scoring, and assisting, including vital Champions League knockout goals that boosted his ranking.
Beyond the top five: stars and surprises
Among the dark horses, Bayern’s Michael Olise delivered 22 goals and 24 assists in a breakout Bundesliga campaign. Viktor Gyokeres smashed 63 goals for Sporting CP, including a Champions League hat‑trick against Man City. Veteran Robert Lewandowski found new life under Hansi Flick at Barcelona, while Cole Palmer’s big‑game magic for Chelsea secured him a late spot on the list.
In midfield, Pedri finally stayed fit and led Barcelona’s creativity, João Neves impressed in his PSG debut season despite a red card in the Club World Cup final, and PSG keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma reminded voters why goalkeepers matter, starring in shootouts and clutch games.
When and where the winner will be crowned
The Ballon d’Or 2025 ceremony takes place on Monday, September 22, at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris. Nominees will be announced in early August, with the final shortlist expected on August 7. This year’s award covers club and international performances from August 1, 2024, to July 31, 2025.
Who will win the Ballon d’Or 2025?
Experts and fans lean heavily toward Dembele, whose all-around impact powered PSG to glory. But Yamal’s age‑defying brilliance and Salah’s Premier League heroics ensure this race remains wide open.
One thing is clear: the Ballon d’Or 2025 rankings spotlight a generational shift, with new superstars ready to take the game’s most prestigious crown. Stay tuned for the final reveal – and join the debate as football history awaits.
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