Top 5 Contenders Who Could Win the Ballon d’Or in 2025

Is this the year we crown a new football king?

With Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo no longer dominating the European stage, the Ballon d’Or is no longer a two-horse race. Their decade-long reign is officially over, sealed by Rodri’s 2024 win. 

The Manchester City player lifted the trophy thanks to a season packed with trophies and influential performances, but a serious ACL injury has all but ruled him out of contention for 2025. That means the door is wide open, and a new face is ready to walk through.

As the race intensifies, here are five players currently leading the charge to win football’s most prestigious individual prize this year.

Ousmane Dembélé – Paris Saint-Germain & France

After a few turbulent seasons at Barcelona, Dembélé has finally found his rhythm in Paris and he’s exploding. The 27-year-old winger has transitioned into a reliable goal threat and match-winner under Luis Enrique’s system at PSG.

With 33 goals and 12 assists in 45 games, Dembélé is delivering in the biggest moments. 

His decisive goals against Liverpool and Arsenal in the Champions League have helped PSG reach the final, and if they go all the way, his Ballon d’Or case will be hard to argue against.

Raphinha – Barcelona & Brazil

Few players have flipped the narrative around their careers quite like Raphinha. Once dismissed as inconsistent, the Brazilian winger has been on a tear this season. With 34 goals and 25 assists in 54 games, he’s been the standout player in La Liga especially during Barcelona’s push for the league title.

While Barca’s Champions League run was cut short, Raphinha’s consistent form and dominance in domestic competitions make him a legitimate contender. The Brazilian flair, the stats, the big-match performances, he’s got the full package.

Lamine Yamal – Barcelona & Spain

Could we see the youngest Ballon d’Or winner in history?

At just 17, Lamine Yamal is already doing things most seasoned professionals dream of. His numbers, 16 goals and 24 assists in 52 appearances are remarkable, but what sets him apart is his maturity and influence in high-pressure games. 

He’s already starred in El Clasico and made waves in the Champions League. If Barcelona clinch La Liga and Yamal shines for Spain at the Euros, this wonderkid could make history and end the year with a golden ball in his hands.

Mohamed Salah – Liverpool & Egypt

The Egyptian King continues to reign in the Premier League. Despite turning 32 this year and facing managerial changes at Liverpool, Salah has once again proven why he’s one of the game’s most consistent forwards.

33 goals and 23 assists in 50 games is an elite return, and his role in guiding Liverpool to a Premier League title under new boss Arne Slot has reignited his Ballon d’Or chances.

However, an early Champions League exit and a dip in form could work against him. Still, if Salah finishes the season strong and performs at the Copa Africa qualifiers, he might just have one more golden run in him.

Lautaro Martínez – Inter Milan & Argentina

Lautaro might have started the season slowly, but he’s peaking at the perfect time. The Inter Milan captain has been clutch, scoring key goals as the Italian giants reached yet another Champions League final.

With 22 goals and 7 assists in 48 games, his numbers may not be as flashy, but his impact is undeniable.

If Inter wins the Champions League especially against the likes of PSG or Real Madrid, Lautaro’s name could shoot to the top of everyone’s Ballon d’Or shortlist. He’s got the narrative, the performances, and possibly, the trophies to back it up.