Ballon d’Or 2025: Yamal, Dembele, and Salah Lead the Race

Ballon d’Or 2025 fever is sweeping the football world as anticipation builds ahead of the prestigious awards ceremony in Paris. With a host of extraordinary talents vying for the coveted Golden Ball, this year’s contest promises to be one of the most hotly debated in recent history.

Ballon d’Or 2025 Contenders: Yamal and Dembele in the Spotlight

Ballon d’Or 2025 discussions have ignited major opinions across the footballing landscape. A former Ballon d’Or winner has thrown his support behind Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, praising his “unpredictable” style and game-changing ability. Yamal’s breakout season has seen him crowned the CIES Football Observatory “Golden Ball” winner, placing him ahead of Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe and other European stars.

However, Ousmane Dembele of Paris Saint-Germain remains the bookmakers’ favourite. His pivotal role in PSG’s historic treble-winning season, including a Champions League triumph, has been cited as a potential deciding factor. PSG sporting director Luis Campos insists that Dembele’s contributions make him the undisputed choice for the Ballon d’Or. Yet, debate rages on as both Yamal and Dembele have their fierce advocates.

Other Notable Ballon d’Or Candidates

While the spotlight is on Yamal and Dembele, other remarkable footballers are still in contention. Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, whose 34 goals powered the club to Premier League glory, has received a passionate last-minute plea from Egypt’s head coach Hossam Hassan. Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane has also been tipped by German legend Lothar Matthaus, who highlighted Kane’s impressive playmaking skills, not just his goal tally.

Despite Kylian Mbappe’s 44-goal season at Real Madrid, his absence from major trophies could work against his campaign. The French superstar has confirmed he will skip the ceremony, believing he is not a realistic contender for this year’s Golden Ball.

Drama Surrounding the Ballon d’Or Ceremony

As has become tradition, the Ballon d’Or 2025 ceremony will be attended by football royalty, with Barcelona legend Ronaldinho set to present the award. However, this year is not without controversy. Real Madrid and Barcelona stars Pedri, Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha are reportedly skipping the gala, following last year’s contentious results and ongoing tensions with the organisers.

Further drama emerged when the PSG–Marseille Ligue 1 match was rescheduled for the same night, casting doubt on Ousmane Dembele’s attendance. Meanwhile, Real Madrid’s ongoing dispute with France Football after Vinicius Jr’s snub in 2024 continues to cast a shadow over the event.

Why Ballon d’Or 2025 Is So Hotly Contested

The Ballon d’Or 2025 edition stands out due to the fierce competition and the remarkable achievements of the nominees. Lamine Yamal’s rise as the world’s best young creator, Ousmane Dembele’s leadership in PSG’s treble, and Salah’s consistency at the highest level have all contributed to one of the tightest races in years.

Debate continues over what should weigh more in Ballon d’Or voting—team success, individual brilliance, or a combination of both. Analysts argue that, in a truly fair system, talents like Yamal and Salah would be more heavily rewarded, but the impact of trophies like the Champions League cannot be ignored.

The Case for Each Leading Candidate

Lamine Yamal has dazzled with his vision, flair, and creativity, drawing comparisons to Lionel Messi and earning the backing of both former players and pundits. Ousmane Dembele’s resurgence at PSG, marked by crucial goals and leadership, has made his case nearly irresistible. Mohamed Salah’s relentless pursuit of excellence has seen him lauded as a “role model for all success seekers.”

Elsewhere, Bayern’s Harry Kane and PSG’s Vitinha have both been mentioned as outside contenders, reflecting the remarkable quality spread across Europe’s top clubs.

What Makes Ballon d’Or 2025 Special?

The Ballon d’Or 2025 has captured global attention not just because of the players involved, but also due to the broader themes of fairness, recognition, and football politics. The shifting balance of power among Europe’s elite clubs, ongoing disputes, and young stars challenging established names all serve to underline the award’s enduring significance.

How to Watch the Ballon d’Or 2025 Ceremony

Fans around the world can tune in to the Ballon d’Or 2025 gala via official broadcasters and live streams. The ceremony promises memorable moments, emotional speeches, and—of course—the crowning of football’s best player.

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Opinion: A New Era Dawns at the Ballon d’Or 2025

The Ballon d’Or 2025 marks a pivotal moment, as the next generation finally steps into the spotlight. Whether Yamal’s youthful magic or Dembele’s triumphant comeback sways the voters, this year’s award represents the changing face of world football. It’s a welcome sign that the sport continues to evolve, rewarding both individual brilliance and collective achievements.