Who Are The Top Contenders For The 2025 Ballon d'Or Awards?

Introduction To The 2025 Ballon d'Or Awards

The Ballon d'Or remains the pinnacle of individual achievement in football, recognising the world's finest male and female players. As the 2025 ceremony approaches at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, anticipation builds around which stars will claim this prestigious honour for their outstanding performances in the 2024-25 season.

In this article, we explore the key contenders for both the men's and women's awards, analysing their statistics, impact, and achievements to give you a comprehensive overview of who could top the class of 2025.

Leading Men In The 2025 Ballon d'Or Race

Ousmane Dembele: Paris Saint-Germain's European Hero

Ousmane Dembele has flourished at PSG, instrumental in the club's maiden European triumph. With 35 goals and 14 assists across 53 games, Dembele's goal contribution rate—one every 71.1 minutes—highlights his consistent influence. Notably, his eight Champions League goals crowned him player of the tournament, including a pivotal two-assist display in PSG’s 5-0 final win over Inter Milan. His performance in the Club World Cup further cemented his status as a key player on the biggest stages.

Harry Kane: Prolific Scorer And Bundesliga Champion

Harry Kane's £86 million switch to Bayern Munich has paid dividends, scoring 41 goals and assisting 12 in 51 appearances. His 26 league goals secured the Bundesliga top scorer title, featuring an impressive run of 10 goals in 11 days during September. Kane’s clinical finishing and leadership helped Bayern clinch the Bundesliga title, marking his first major trophy — a testament to his enduring quality at 32.

Kylian Mbappé: France's Goal Machine At Real Madrid

Transitioning to Real Madrid, Kylian Mbappé did not miss a beat. With 44 goals and 5 assists from 59 matches, he topped La Liga’s scoring charts with 31 goals. Mbappé’s standout moments include hat-tricks against Valladolid and Barcelona and a decisive treble against Manchester City in the Champions League knockout round. His international record is equally impressive, becoming only the third player to net 50 goals for France.

Raphinha: Barcelona's Triple Trophy Winner

Raphinha played a crucial role in Barcelona’s treble-winning campaign, delivering 34 goals and 22 assists in 57 games. His 18 league goals and nine assists earned him La Liga's Player of the Season. The Brazilian’s Champions League tally of 13 goals, including a hat-trick against Bayern Munich, showcased his ability to perform under pressure.

Mohamed Salah: Liverpool’s Premier League Icon

Mohamed Salah continued to shine as Liverpool secured their 20th English league title. His 29 Premier League goals and 18 assists tied the record for most goal involvements in a 38-game season. Salah’s fourth Golden Boot and second Premier League Player of the Year award underline his elite status. Despite Liverpool’s early Champions League exit, Salah’s impact was undeniable.

Lamine Yamal: Rising Star At Barcelona

At just 18, Lamine Yamal has already amassed 18 goals and 21 assists in 55 appearances. His pace and creativity were central to Barcelona’s Spanish treble success. Yamal’s performances earned him La Liga’s Player of the Month in September and spots in the league and Champions League teams of the season, signalling a bright future.

Top Female Contenders For The 2025 Ballon d'Or

Aitana Bonmatí: Three-Time Ballon d'Or Winner In The Making

Aitana Bonmatí, a Barcelona and Spain stalwart, aims for a third consecutive Ballon d'Or. Despite missing out on some major accolades this season, her 12 goals and 6 assists in 26 matches highlight her quality. She played a pivotal role in Spain's Nations League run, scoring the semi-final winner, though England ultimately claimed the Euro 2025 title.

Alessia Russo: Arsenal's European Champion

Alessia Russo’s breakthrough season culminated in Euro 2025 glory and a Champions League win with Arsenal. The 26-year-old netted 12 goals and earned the Football Writers' Association women's player of the year. Russo’s work rate and clutch goals, including the Euro final strike, have propelled her into the spotlight as one of the top contenders.

Alexia Putellas: Barcelona's Domestic Queen

Alexia Putellas, a two-time Ballon d'Or winner, remains a strong contender with 16 goals and 11 assists for Barcelona’s domestic treble-winning side. Although Barcelona missed out in the Champions League and Spain fell short in the Euro final, Putellas’ consistent high-level performances continue to make her a formidable candidate.

Claudia Pina: Versatile Goal Threat

Claudia Pina impressed with 10 goals and 7 assists in 27 appearances. The versatile forward was the Champions League’s top scorer and a key player for both Barcelona and Spain. Pina’s absence was felt in Spain’s Euro final defeat, reinforcing her value and contention for the award.

Lucy Bronze: Defender With A Winning Touch

Lucy Bronze’s resilience shone through despite a fractured tibia, helping Chelsea and England secure multiple trophies. The defender played 19 matches, contributing 2 goals and 3 assists. Her leadership and clutch penalty in the Euro quarter-final demonstrate that defenders can also compete for the Ballon d'Or.

Mariona Caldentey: Arsenal’s Creative Force

New to Arsenal, Mariona Caldentey made an immediate impact by helping the club to its first Champions League title. Her 9 goals and 5 assists in 21 games, combined with being named WSL player of the year, make her a standout candidate. Caldentey’s goal in the Euro final, despite Spain’s loss, further highlights her calibre.

Why The Ballon d'Or Matters In Football

The Ballon d'Or is more than just an individual accolade; it reflects the evolution of football and the players who define their eras. Players like Mohamed Salah and Kylian Mbappé not only score goals but inspire a generation. Meanwhile, talents like Aitana Bonmatí and Alessia Russo demonstrate the growing prominence of women's football globally.

For fans keen on following these stories beyond individual awards, our coverage of key football transfers and guides to UK and Ireland football leagues provide deeper insights into the sport’s landscape.

Conclusion: Who Will Lift The Trophy In 2025?

The 2025 Ballon d'Or ceremony promises thrilling outcomes. On the men’s side, the race is fiercely competitive with Dembele’s European feats, Kane’s Bundesliga dominance, and Mbappé’s goal-scoring prowess all vying for top honours. In the women’s category, established stars and emerging talents alike offer compelling cases.

Ultimately, the award recognises excellence, consistency, and impact. As you await the announcement, consider the remarkable journeys behind the statistics and how these players have shaped the beautiful game this season.