For the first time in nearly two decades, the Ballon d’Or race is without Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo
A new era has begun. With Messi now in the MLS and Ronaldo continuing his career in Saudi Arabia, the race for football’s most prestigious individual honor feels refreshingly open. As the 2024-25 season heads into its final stretch, a new generation of stars is stepping into the spotlight. The Champions League and domestic titles are still up for grabs — and with them, the fate of this year’s Ballon d’Or.
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Kylian Mbappé: The New Galáctico
Mbappé’s long-anticipated move to Real Madrid finally became reality — and despite a quiet start, he’s now in full flight. With 20 goals in La Liga and another seven in the Champions League, he’s playing a decisive role for Los Blancos. His stunning hat-trick against Manchester City at the Bernabéu may go down as the season’s defining performance. Should Madrid lift more silverware, Mbappé could finally claim the individual prize he’s long been tipped to win.
Mohamed Salah: A Premier League Legend’s Final Push
Mohamed Salah is delivering another standout campaign for Liverpool, with over 27 goals and 17 assists to his name. Yet, setbacks in the Champions League and domestic cups have cast doubt over his Ballon d’Or hopes. Still, if he can lead the Reds to a Premier League title, the Egyptian king might just pull off a historic win — becoming Africa’s first Ballon d’Or winner in 40 years.
Raphinha: Barcelona’s Surprise Star
Few predicted Raphinha would shine this brightly. But with 27 goals and 19 assists across all competitions, he’s emerged as one of Europe’s top performers. His 11 Champions League goals — including standout showings against Benfica — have fueled Barcelona’s resurgence at home and abroad. If the trophies follow, he could become one of the most unexpected Ballon d’Or winners in recent memory.
Harry Kane: The Trophy Curse Breaker?
After years of near-misses, Harry Kane might finally get his hands on major silverware. The Bundesliga’s top scorer has also netted 10 times in the Champions League, and Bayern Munich remains a threat on all fronts. If Kane helps them win big, his Ballon d’Or credentials will be hard to ignore.
Ousmane Dembélé: PSG’s Resurgence Story
Dembélé has rediscovered his best form in Paris, becoming a consistent threat for PSG. With 21 Ligue 1 goals and seven more in Europe, he’s helped the Parisians go unbeaten domestically and mount a strong Champions League challenge. If he leads them to continental glory, Dembélé could be a surprise name on the shortlist.
Dark Horses: Vinícius Júnior, Lamine Yamal, and More
- Vinícius Júnior: Last year’s runner-up hasn’t quite hit the same heights, but a big finish could put him back in contention.
- Lamine Yamal: The teenage sensation has dazzled for Barça with 13 goals and 20 assists. A few more big performances might turn heads.
- Pedri & Jude Bellingham: Both midfield maestros have impressed, but they’ll need standout moments in Europe to break into the top tier of candidates.
- Jamal Musiala: Bayern’s creative heartbeat continues to grow in influence — he could be a wildcard in this race.
What Determines the Ballon d’Or Winner?
It’s not just about goals. Voters consider individual brilliance, team success, consistency, and influence in key moments. While stars like Messi and Ronaldo dominated with their scoring records, past winners like Luka Modrić and Karim Benzema showed that leadership and impact matter just as much.
With domestic leagues tightening and Champions League drama ahead, the final weeks will be crucial.
Who Will Win the 2025 Ballon d’Or?
Could it be Mbappé, Kane, or perhaps Raphinha? Or will someone from the chasing pack rise to the occasion? One thing’s for sure — football always has a surprise in store.
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