Top 10 Contenders for the 2025 Ballon d’Or takes you inside the world of elite footballers competing for the most prestigious individual prize in the game. From seasoned legends to emerging icons, this list covers players who have lit up 2025 with incredible performances across domestic leagues, the UEFA Champions League, and major international tournaments. Whether it’s Erling Haaland continuing his goal-scoring dominance, Jude Bellingham commanding midfield battles for club and country, or Kylian Mbappé delivering dazzling displays on the biggest stages, the race is tighter than ever. You’ll also find dark horse candidates making serious cases through consistency, leadership, and silverware, including names like Phil Foden, Jamal Musiala, and João Cancelo.
This guide doesn’t just list names—it dives into the stats, trophies, and game-changing moments that define each contender’s journey in 2025. It’s a must-read for fans eager to track who’s truly leading the Ballon d’Or race and who might surprise the footballing world when the award is announced. Get a clear picture of what makes a Ballon d’Or-worthy season, and stay informed on the players shaping football’s highest honors.
10. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid / England)
Jude Bellingham has firmly established himself as one of the most complete midfielders in world football. During the 2024/25 season, he was instrumental in Real Madrid’s success, displaying an incredible blend of energy, vision, and leadership. His ability to dominate the midfield both defensively and offensively made him the engine that drove the team’s multiple trophy wins.
Bellingham’s influence went beyond mere statistics; his pressing, intelligent positioning, and creative playmaking were vital in controlling games. He scored important goals and provided assists when needed, proving he can contribute in all facets of the game. His performances in high-pressure Champions League matches particularly stood out, showcasing maturity well beyond his years.
As a young player with immense potential, Bellingham is expected to grow even further, and his 2024/25 season made a strong case for his inclusion among football’s elite. His combination of physicality, technical skill, and tactical awareness makes him a unique force, and his role in Real Madrid’s dominant season cements his status as a serious Ballon d’Or contender for 2025.
9. Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid / Brazil)
Vinícius Júnior continued his remarkable rise in the 2024/25 season, solidifying his place as one of the most exciting wingers in world football. Known for his electrifying pace, dribbling ability, and flair, Vinícius consistently terrorized defenses in La Liga and the Champions League.
He played a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s attacking setup, contributing vital goals and assists at crucial moments. His creativity and ability to unlock tight defenses made him a go-to player whenever the team needed a breakthrough. Beyond just scoring, his work ethic and defensive contributions helped balance the team.
Vinícius’s standout moments included decisive goals against top rivals and an impressive display of skill under pressure. His performances helped Real Madrid maintain their status as a European powerhouse. As a young talent with star quality, Vinícius Júnior’s 2024/25 campaign confirmed his emergence as a leading candidate for the Ballon d’Or in 2025.
8. Pedri (Barcelona / Spain)
Pedri played an essential role in Barcelona’s resurgence during the 2024/25 season. The Spanish midfielder’s creativity, vision, and tireless work rate were fundamental to Barcelona clinching the La Liga title and making deep progress in the Champions League.
Despite his young age, Pedri demonstrated remarkable maturity in controlling the tempo of games and linking defense to attack. His precise passing and intelligent movement allowed him to unlock defenses and create numerous goal-scoring opportunities for teammates like Raphinha and Lamine Yamal.
Pedri also contributed goals himself, showing a growing confidence in front of goal. His performances were consistent throughout the season, and he often rose to the occasion in crucial matches. As Barcelona rebuilds around young stars, Pedri’s role as a midfield maestro places him firmly in contention for the 2025 Ballon d’Or.
7. Cole Palmer (Chelsea / England)
Cole Palmer emerged as a key creative force for Chelsea in the 2024/25 season. The young English midfielder demonstrated flair, vision, and an eye for goal that made him one of the most exciting prospects in the Premier League.
Palmer’s ability to operate both as an attacking midfielder and a winger gave Chelsea tactical flexibility. His dribbling skills and quick thinking in tight spaces allowed him to unlock defenses and provide important assists and goals throughout the season.
Despite Chelsea facing stiff competition in the league, Palmer’s individual performances stood out. He was often the spark that ignited Chelsea’s attacks, and his confidence grew with each game. His breakout season has made him a notable contender for individual awards, including the Ballon d’Or, as he continues to develop into a world-class talent.
6. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Paris Saint-Germain / Georgia)
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia made a significant impact after joining Paris Saint-Germain in the winter window of the 2024/25 season. Known for his pace, dribbling, and creative flair, Kvaratskhelia added a new dimension to PSG’s attacking line-up.
Despite arriving midway through the campaign, he quickly adapted and became a regular contributor, assisting and scoring important goals. His ability to take on defenders one-on-one and create chances made him a valuable asset in PSG’s historic treble-winning season.
Kvaratskhelia’s performances under pressure and his seamless integration into a star-studded squad highlighted his maturity and potential. His rapid rise in one of Europe’s top teams places him among the leading contenders for the Ballon d’Or in 2025.
Also Read:
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- Top 10 La Liga Players to Watch in the 2025/2026 Season
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- Top 10 Premier League Players to Watch in the 2025/2026 Season
5. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid / France)
Kylian Mbappé maintained his status as one of the world’s elite forwards during the 2024/25 season, despite Real Madrid falling short of major trophies. His individual brilliance shone through as he netted 31 league goals, demonstrating his lethal finishing and ability to perform consistently at the highest level.
Mbappé’s speed, dribbling, and goal-scoring instincts made him a constant threat for defenders across Spain and Europe. Although the team struggled for silverware, his personal statistics kept him firmly in the Ballon d’Or conversation.
His performances in key fixtures and ability to carry the team in difficult moments underlined his importance. Mbappé remains a dominant figure in world football and a top contender for individual accolades in 2025.
4. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool / Egypt)
Mohamed Salah had an exceptional 2024/25 season, leading Liverpool to the Premier League title with 29 goals and 18 assists. His relentless attacking style, sharp finishing, and creativity were vital in securing one of Liverpool’s most successful campaigns in recent history.
Salah’s ability to perform in big matches and his consistency over the season highlighted his status as one of the game’s best forwards. His combination of experience and flair made him a fan favorite and a constant goal threat.
Despite Liverpool’s earlier exit in the Champions League, Salah’s domestic performances kept him in the spotlight. His leadership and scoring exploits place him as a major contender for the Ballon d’Or.
3. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona / Spain)
Lamine Yamal was one of the biggest breakout stars of the 2024/25 season. At just 17 years old, he became Barcelona’s youngest player to reach 100 competitive appearances, impressing with his technical skills, creativity, and maturity on the pitch.
Yamal’s ability to dribble past defenders, create chances, and score goals made him an integral part of Barcelona’s attacking force. His performances in crucial games demonstrated his potential to become one of football’s greats.
His rapid rise and consistent high-level play have captured the attention of fans and pundits alike, making him a surprising yet deserving candidate for the Ballon d’Or in 2025.
2. Raphinha (Barcelona / Brazil)
Raphinha was a standout performer for Barcelona in 2024/25, scoring 34 goals and playing a key role in their La Liga triumph. His skillful dribbling, precise crossing, and knack for scoring important goals made him a central figure in Barcelona’s success.
Raphinha’s ability to deliver in high-pressure matches, including his vital goals in the Champions League, showed his quality and consistency. His partnership with teammates like Pedri and Yamal gave Barcelona a dynamic and potent attack.
His contributions helped Barcelona reclaim domestic glory and make an impact in Europe, solidifying his status as a leading contender for the Ballon d’Or.
1. Ousmane Dembélé (Paris Saint-Germain / France)
Ousmane Dembélé was the standout star of the 2024/25 season, leading Paris Saint-Germain to a historic treble, including their first-ever UEFA Champions League title. Scoring 33 goals and assisting 12, Dembélé was instrumental in PSG’s attack.
His dazzling dribbling, creativity, and ability to perform in crucial moments set him apart. Dembélé’s resilience and determination to overcome past injury struggles paid off, making this arguably his best season yet.
He was the driving force behind PSG’s success, often turning games with moments of individual brilliance. His impact and consistency make him the clear favorite for the 2025 Ballon d’Or.
FAQ’s:
Who is the favorite to win the 2025 Ballon d’Or?
Ousmane Dembélé is the current favorite after a stunning 2024/25 season where he helped Paris Saint-Germain win a historic treble, including their first-ever Champions League title. His goal-scoring, creativity, and consistency put him ahead in the race.
Which young players are emerging as serious contenders for the 2025 Ballon d’Or?
Lamine Yamal and Cole Palmer are two exciting young talents making waves. Yamal, at just 17, broke records with Barcelona, showing maturity and skill beyond his years. Cole Palmer impressed with his creativity and impact for Chelsea, marking them as future stars.
How do team achievements affect a player’s chances of winning the Ballon d’Or?
Team success plays a significant role in Ballon d’Or voting. Players who lead their teams to major trophies—like league titles or the Champions League—tend to have a stronger case. This is why players like Dembélé and Raphinha, who contributed to Barcelona’s and PSG’s successful campaigns, are top contenders.
