The race for the Men Ballon d’Or 2025 is heating up as the football world reflects on an extraordinary 2024/25 season. With no major international tournaments influencing the outcome, performances at club level have become more crucial than ever. PSG’s Club World Cup disappointment and Chelsea’s surprising triumph have reshuffled the odds.
The likes of Cole Palmer and Achraf Hakimi have soared into contention, while big names like Kylian Mbappe and Mohamed Salah are trying to maintain their spots among football’s elite. The Ballon d’Or will be awarded in September 2025, but voting is based entirely on the 2024/25 season, not the calendar year.
So who leads the pack? Who’s still in with a shout? Here are the top 10 Men Ballon d’Or 2025 contenders based on performances across the domestic and continental stages.
10. Kylian Mbappe – Real Madrid
Mbappe recorded 42 goals and 4 assists in his debut season for Real Madrid, but his team fell short in major tournaments. A Champions League quarter-final exit and a heavy Club World Cup defeat to PSG hurt his Ballon d’Or push. Despite his stats, lack of trophies and France’s Nations League loss make it hard for him to lead the Men Ballon d’Or 2025 rankings.
9. Gianluigi Donnarumma – PSG
Donnarumma stood tall for PSG all season, producing critical saves in key matches. However, the Ballon d Or 2025 voting heavily favors attacking players, and goalkeepers are rarely recognized. PSG’s meltdown in the Club World Cup final won’t help his case either, despite his personal brilliance between the posts.
8. Mohamed Salah – Liverpool
The Egyptian winger helped Liverpool reclaim the Premier League title and ended with an incredible 47 goal contributions. Still, Liverpool’s early Champions League exit and his inability to match the historic 20 goals/20 assists mark hurt his bid for the Men Ballon d’Or 2025. Salah is still in contention but no longer the frontrunner.
7. Achraf Hakimi – PSG
Hakimi had 9 goals and 12 assists from right-back — an elite return for a defender. His dynamic style and attacking contributions were vital to PSG’s treble. Unfortunately, voters still often overlook full-backs, and PSG’s heavy loss in the Club World Cup final may overshadow his fantastic campaign.
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6. Nuno Mendes – PSG
Mendes didn’t match Hakimi’s numbers but was just as vital. He won the UEFA Nations League with Portugal, where he famously nullified Lamine Yamal in the final. A consistent force for PSG and country, Mendes strengthened his case for recognition in the Men Ballon d’Or 2025 discussion.
5. Raphinha – Barcelona
Raphinha silenced critics with an unbelievable 34 goals and 22 assists across all competitions. He was pivotal in Barcelona’s La Liga and Copa del Rey victories. Though he lacked a single defining moment, his overall influence can’t be ignored and keeps him in the Ballon d’Or top five.
4. Ousmane Dembele – PSG
Dembele finished the season with 33 goals and 13 assists. He produced crucial moments in the Champions League and semi-finals of the Club World Cup. While France’s Nations League disappointment affected his ranking, Dembele remains one of the most consistent performers this season.
3. Cole Palmer – Chelsea
Palmer’s rapid rise is one of the stories of the year. He starred in Chelsea’s Conference League and Club World Cup wins, delivering masterclass performances in both finals. His dismantling of PSG was a defining moment. If voters favor iconic games, Palmer could climb even higher in the Men Ballon d’Or 2025 list.
2. Vitinha – PSG
Vitinha was PSG’s midfield engine, crucial in their domestic dominance and Club World Cup run. He followed it up by leading Portugal to UEFA Nations League success. His tactical intelligence and consistency in big matches make him one of the most complete players in world football today.
1. Lamine Yamal – Barcelona
The 18-year-old sensation continues to shatter expectations. With 18 goals and 21 assists, plus a La Liga and Copa del Rey double, Yamal is already competing with the world’s best. His dazzling Champions League displays made headlines globally. He tops the Men Ballon d’Or 2025 rankings for now.
FAQs :
Who is the current favorite for the Men Ballon d’Or 2025?
Lamine Yamal leads the race with outstanding performances and team success with Barcelona.
Can Cole Palmer win the Ballon d’Or despite playing in the Conference League?
Yes, his stunning displays in two finals and high-impact performances have put him firmly in the spotlight.
Why is Mbappe ranked so low?
Despite scoring 42 goals, a lack of silverware and key defeats with Real Madrid and France have hurt his chances.
Can a defender like Hakimi win the award?
Unlikely, as defenders rarely win the Ballon d’Or, though his stats are exceptional.
