Ballon d’Or 2025: A Comprehensive Breakdown of Every Nominee

 

The Ballon d’Or 2025 nominations have been officially announced, marking the beginning of an intense debate over who will claim football’s most prestigious individual award. This year’s list features a mix of established superstars, rising talents, and unexpected contenders, reflecting a season where multiple players delivered extraordinary performances. With Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo no longer in contention, the race is wide open, and the winner will be crowned at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris on September 22, 2025 16.

Ousmane Dembélé (Paris Saint-Germain & France) emerges as the frontrunner after a career-defining season. The French winger was instrumental in PSG’s historic Champions League triumph, scoring 35 goals and providing 14 assists across all competitions. His ability to dismantle defenses with blistering pace and clinical finishing was pivotal in PSG’s quadruple-winning campaign, which included Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, and the Trophée des Champions 15.**

Meanwhile, Lamine Yamal (Barcelona & Spain), despite being just 18 years old, has forced his way into the conversation. The Barcelona prodigy recorded 39 goal involvements (26 goals, 13 assists) and led La Liga in successful dribbles (161). His performances drew comparisons to a young Lionel Messi, and though Barcelona fell short in Europe, Yamal’s individual brilliance makes him a strong contender for both the Ballon d’Or and the Kopa Trophy 19.

Paris Saint-Germain’s unprecedented success is reflected in their nine Ballon d’Or nominees, the most of any club. Alongside Dembélé, Achraf Hakimi (RB) delivered a sensational campaign with 11 goals and 16 assists, redefining the modern full-back role. His defensive contributions were equally impressive, making him one of the most complete players in the world 511.

Gianluigi Donnarumma (GK) was a wall in goal, keeping 34% clean sheets and saving 71% of shots faced in PSG’s Champions League-winning run. His commanding presence earned him a spot as the favorite for the Yashin Trophy 5. Midfielders Vitinha and Fabián Ruiz were the metronomes of Luis Enrique’s system, with Vitinha’s press-resistant passing and Ruiz’s creativity proving vital in big matches, including a crucial goal in the Champions League semifinal 511.

Barcelona’s domestic treble under Hansi Flick saw several players earn nominations. Raphinha (RW) was their standout performer, matching Cristiano Ronaldo’s record of 21 goal involvements in a single Champions League season (12 goals, 9 assists). His ability to deliver in big games, including El Clásico, makes him a dark horse for the award 15.

Robert Lewandowski (ST), at 36 years old, silenced critics with 42 goals in all competitions. His resurgence was key to Barcelona’s La Liga triumph, though his absence in crucial European fixtures may hurt his chances 11. Meanwhile, Pedri (CM) orchestrated play with 58 pre-assist passes, the most in Europe, showcasing his elite vision 5.

Mohamed Salah (Liverpool & Egypt) had another phenomenal season, registering 57 goal involvements—a Premier League record. His consistency was unmatched, though Liverpool’s failure to win the Champions League may cost him 57.

Declan Rice (Arsenal & England) evolved into a complete midfielder under Mikel Arteta, contributing 9 goals and 10 assists, including two stunning free-kicks against Real Madrid in the Champions League. His leadership propelled Arsenal to a Premier League title 58.

Erling Haaland (Manchester City & Norway) netted 34 goals, the most in the Premier League, but City’s trophy-less season diminishes his candidacy 5.

Jude Bellingham (CM) adapted brilliantly to a deeper role, tallying 15 goals and 15 assists, but Real Madrid’s lack of silverware leaves him outside the top contenders 11. Kylian Mbappé (LW), despite scoring 31 league goals, struggled to replicate his PSG form at Madrid, and his early Champions League exit weakens his case 11.

Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan & Netherlands) made history as the top-scoring defender (11 goals) in Europe, including a heroic Champions League semifinal display 5. Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool & Netherlands) anchored Liverpool’s defense with 403 line-breaking passes, proving he remains elite 5.

Scott McTominay (Napoli & Scotland), once a Manchester United squad player, became Serie A’s Player of the Season, leading Napoli to the title with 12 goals 79. Viktor Gyökeres (Arsenal & Sweden), after a 54-goal season with Sporting CP, earned a big-money move to Arsenal and a Ballon d’Or nod 5.

With no clear favorite, the race is the most open in years. Dembélé’s trophy haul and clutch performances give him the edge, but Yamal, Raphinha, and Salah remain strong alternatives. The September ceremony will reveal whether PSG’s dominance, Barcelona’s youth revolution, or Premier League brilliance claims the ultimate prize 1311.

(This article covers key nominees; for the full list, see SI or UEFA).