2025 Ballon d’Or Power Rankings: Who Is Ahead in the Race?
The competition for the Ballon d’Or is intensifying as the football globe enters the final quarter of 2025. Several standout players have emerged as favorites for football’s most prestigious individual distinction as the FIFA Club World Cup approaches and UEFA competitions conclude.
Although previous champions such as Lionel Messi and Karim Benzema have retired, a new generation of stars and a few revitalized veterans are making compelling arguments. As of June 2025, the Ballon d’Or 2025 Power Rankings are presented below, highlighting the leading contenders.
1. Ousmane Dembélé (PSG & France)
Dembélé, who was previously perceived as inconsistent, has since evolved into one of the most devastating wingers in the world. Dembélé contributed crucial assists and goals to Paris Saint-Germain’s historic treble, which included the UEFA Champions League, the Coupe de France, and Ligue 1.
Key Stats: Twenty-five or more goals and twenty-five or more assists
Signature Moment: The goal that secured the Champions League semifinal victory
Why He Is Number One: His leadership on the largest stage, electrifying form, and numerous trophies.
2. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona & Spain)
Yamal’s performances have captivated La Liga and Europe at the young age of 17. The Barcelona prodigy has rapidly established himself as a central figure in both club and national settings, demonstrating a combination of maturity, vision, and panache that surpasses his years.
Key Stats: 16 assists and 13 goals across all competitions
The Reason for His Ascension: If he continues to guide Spain throughout Euro 2025, a top-three Ballon d’Or finish is easily achievable.
3 🥉 Raphinha (Brazil), Barcelona
Raphinha’s individual campaign was exceptional, despite the fact that Yamal has garnered the majority of the attention. His final product was exceptional, rendering him one of the most perilous widemen in Europe this year.
Key Stats: In 57 games, 34 goals and 25 assists were recorded.
Why He Is in the Top 3: He is a consistent and potent player who is responsible for reviving Barcelona’s attack.
4. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool & Egypt)
Although Liverpool was unsuccessful in the Champions League, Salah’s performance continued to be exceptional. He remained a model of consistency and carried his team in close fixtures, contributing 56 goals in 51 games.
Why He’s a Contender: His statistics are exceedingly difficult to replicate year after year.
5. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid & France)
Mbappé secured the European Golden Shoe with 43 goals. He is now dressed in white. However, his new chapter at Real Madrid did not result in the typical silverware collection, as he was eliminated from both the Champions League and La Liga.
The Reason for His Decline: While his statistics are impressive, the team’s accomplishments in 2025 were underwhelming.
6. Désiré Doué (PSG & France)
Doué emerged as a breakout hero during PSG’s Champions League campaign, scoring goals and providing assists in important matches, including a brace in the final. The adolescent is currently one of the most promising young players in the world of football.
Why He Is Climbing: At the age of 19, he has delivered powerful performances on the most prestigious stages.
🔄 7. Vitinha (PSG & Portugal)
Vitinha, the driving force behind PSG’s European dominance, was the pulse of the French club’s midfield. His defensive work, creativity, and control have garnered him widespread respect, despite the fact that he is not as flamboyant as others.
The Reason for His Underestimation: A midfield general who elevates the performance of all others.
Achraf Hakimi (PSG & Morocco)
It was imperative for PSG that Hakimi’s influence was felt at both ends of the pitch. He is presenting the most compelling argument for a full-back to be a Ballon d’Or finalist since Marcelo, exemplified by his crucial goals, assists, and airtight defending.
Versatility, consistency, and impact across all competitions are the reasons for his presence.
🧐 Additional Notables: Nuno Mendes (PSG) – A dominant year on the left flank, bolstered by performances in the Club World Cup and Nations League.
Erling Haaland (Manchester City) – Although he remains formidable, his case was harmed by injuries and an early exit from the Champions League.
Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid) – Early season performance was robust; however, it declined as the team’s performance declined.
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