The footballing world is ablaze with speculation regarding the recipient of the sport’s most prestigious individual distinction as we enter the final stretch before the Ballon d’Or 2025 is awarded. In the wake of a thrilling club season and the ongoing international tournaments, several players have emerged as the most prominent. As of June 2025, the following are the foremost competitors:
Rodri became the first Spaniard to win the 2024 Ballon d’Or since 1960.
Vinicius Jr. has experienced a decline in the rankings this season as a consequence of Real Madrid’s unfortunate circumstances, which he attributes to his frustration at not carrying home the trophy.
Lamine Yamal has the potential to become the first adolescent winner within the next year.
The Ballon d’Or duopoly between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo appears to have come to an end in 2024, as Manchester City midfielder Rodri emerged victorious ahead of Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. and Jude Bellingham. Rodri’s victory appears to be the official commencement of a new era, as Messi and Ronaldo are presently playing outside of Europe. The midfielder was instrumental in the attainment of both club and national success.
The 28-year-old Spaniard’s likelihood of effectively defending his title is low as a result of an ACL injury he sustained early in the 2024–25 season, despite his status as a deserving recipient. This strongly suggests that a new champion will emerge in 2025, barring a miraculous revival and exceptional accomplishments.
The renowned individual award was determined by the performance of football players over the span of a calendar year. For the third time in the award’s history, the ballots are, however, determined by the season’s results. Given this, we have compiled a list of 20 potential 2025 Ballon d’Or nominees and classified them based on their performance to date prior to the ceremony in October.
1. Jude Bellingham (England & Real Madrid)
The Reason for His Leadership:
Bellingham has been instrumental in Real Madrid’s La Liga and UEFA Champions League victories, as evidenced by his exceptional campaign. Los Blancos’ 21-year-old midfielder has emerged as the team’s beating center, delivering commanding performances and scoring critical goals on the most significant stages. Bellingham has a precious opportunity to secure the Ballon d’Or with a successful tournament, as England is among the Euro 2025 favorites.
Key Statistics (2024/25):
All comps: 19 goals, 12 assists
UEFA Champions League Player of the Season
La Liga Midfielder of the Year
2. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid & France)
The pursuit is underway:
Mbappé’s eagerly anticipated transfer to Real Madrid has yielded immediate benefits. Despite the fact that Bellingham has garnered the most attention, Mbappé has been a prolific goal scorer, securing the top spot for Madrid and making significant contributions in Europe. He is very much involved in the contest, as France is also expected to make a deep run at Euro 2025.
Key Statistics (2024/25):
Eight assists and 33 goals (all equal)
Goal scored in the Champions League Final
Euro 2025 commences with a robust start
3. Erling Haaland (Norway & Manchester City)
Machine Continues to Fire:
Despite Manchester City’s unfortunate loss in the Champions League semifinals, Haaland’s goal tally remains immense. He once again dominated the Premier League golden boot contest and is Norway’s most promising prospect in their first major tournament appearance in decades. In the event that he leads them to an unexpected Euro 2025 run, his popularity will greatly increase.
Key Statistics (2024/25):
Five assists, 42 goals (all matches)
Premier League Golden Boot
Top scorer in the UEFA Nations League
4. Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid & Brazil)
No Longer Underrated:
Vinícius would be the frontrunner in any other year. Madrid’s double was significantly influenced by his exceptional performances on the flank. The Brazilian has become a fan favorite due to his creativity and flair, and the Copa América 2025 has the potential to substantially strengthen his case.
Key Statistics (2024/25):
A total of 16 goals and 18 assists (all competitions)
Best Forward nominee for the Champions League
Key players to observe in the Copa América
5. Harry Kane (England & Bayern Munich)
Continued pursuit:
Kane’s goal production has been spectacular, despite Bayern’s disappointing season. Should he lead England to victory at Euro 2025 and secure the Golden Boot, electors may disregard Bayern’s difficulties.
Key Statistics (2024/25):
Nine assists, 36 goals (all competitors)
Bundesliga Player of the Year
The individual who has scored the most goals in the history of England
🟨 Honorable Mentions: Lionel Messi (Inter Miami & Argentina) – He has the potential to regain his position in the top 10 if the Copa América is successful.
Phil Foden (Manchester City & England) – Career-best season, but overshadowed by more prominent players.
Rodri (Manchester City & Spain) is currently the most exceptional holding midfielder in the globe.
Lamine Yamal (Barcelona & Spain) – A teenage sensation; a strong Euro could shatter records.
Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium & Manchester City) – He remains world-class when in peak condition; however, injuries have restricted him.
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