2025 Ballon d'Or Contenders: Dembele Leads the Race After PSG's Victory
Overview of the 2025 Ballon d'Or Race
The competition for the 2025 Ballon d'Or is intensifying, with Ousmane Dembele currently in the lead following Paris Saint-Germain's Champions League victory. However, strong challengers like Lautaro Martínez and Raphinha are also in the mix, leaving the outcome uncertain.
Event Details
The prestigious 2025 Ballon d'Or ceremony is scheduled for September 22, 2025, at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris. This event will honor the top male footballer from the 2024-25 season. With no significant international tournaments this year, individual club performances will play a crucial role in deciding the winner.
Top Contenders
Ousmane Dembele
Ousmane Dembele's remarkable performance in PSG's 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League final has positioned him as a frontrunner for the 2025 Ballon d'Or. The 28-year-old French winger has had an outstanding season, netting 33 goals and assisting 15 times in 49 matches across all competitions.
Lautaro Martínez
Lautaro Martínez, a 27-year-old striker for Inter Milan, has been pivotal in leading his team to the Champions League final, scoring 22 goals and providing 7 assists in Serie A. However, his lack of European accolades this season may hinder his chances.
Mohamed Salah
Mohamed Salah, the 32-year-old forward from Liverpool, played a key role in securing the Premier League title for his team, finishing as the league's top scorer with 29 goals. Nevertheless, Liverpool's early exit from the Champions League could negatively impact his Ballon d'Or aspirations.
Lamine Yamal
Lamine Yamal, a 17-year-old winger from Barcelona, has enjoyed a breakout season, contributing 18 goals and 25 assists in 55 matches. His creativity and significant role in Barcelona's domestic treble make him a formidable candidate.
Raphinha
Raphinha, the 28-year-old winger, has been instrumental in his team's treble-winning campaign, achieving 34 goals and 25 assists across all competitions. His impressive statistics and silverware position him among Europe's elite performers.
Predictions
Currently, the race appears to be between Dembele, Raphinha, and Yamal for the coveted award. Dembele is favored to win, as the votes for Raphinha and Yamal, both from Barcelona, may split. Additionally, Yamal's youth might lead voters to favor the more experienced candidates.