Is it Raphinha versus Yamal for the Ballon d'Or, or can Dembele achieve it?

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In a year devoid of a significant international tournament, triumphing in the Champions League is undoubtedly crucial for clinching the Ballon d’Or. Therefore, that ought to conclude the discussion about Real Madrid.  Here are the top 10 contenders for the award, based on the bookmakers' odds…  Favorites to claim the 2025 Ballon d’Or   10. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia [Paris Saint-Germain] Outstanding since his January transfer from Napoli, aiding the French team in effortlessly securing another league championship while more significantly remaining focused on achieving that coveted Champions League trophy.  9. Kylian Mbappé [Real Madrid] "Personal awards matter as well, such as the Ballon d’Or." I understand what I need to do to achieve victory, many asks both on and off the field. "When I take all the necessary steps to achieve victory, I will achieve it," says the Frenchman.  And if he fails to accomplish all that he must – which he definitely has not – then he will...

Amorim claims Garnacho is one of the three from Man Utd who lack ‘quality’; desires two ‘major signings’ in summer


Ruben Amorim identified Alejandro Garnacho as one of three Manchester United players who lack “quality” before a summer where he aims to add “two significant players”. 

Amorim took over as United's new head coach in November but has faced challenges in making the intended impact after Erik ten Hag was let go, with the Red Devils currently in 13th place in the Premier League ahead of their match against Manchester City on Sunday. 

It is commonly acknowledged that the Portuguese manager requires new players this summer since the existing group is finding it difficult to adjust to his philosophy and system. 

Amorim affirmed before the Manchester derby that he aims to recruit a few "big players." 

Amorim stated, “We must excel in recruitment.” "We must understand our system, our style of play, and the players must fit perfectly in that role." We understand the actions to take, we will find out next season. 

“I simply aim to concentrate on our strengths and add one or two significant players.” 

"We must concentrate; we are taking all the steps to ensure next season is significantly improved." In my opinion, I cannot handle this idea of ‘we will attempt something in four years.’ We must strive to improve significantly. This is a huge club. 

"It's attributes we lack in our team, looking for the gaps; when I mention big players, I'm referring to those who align with my vision of the game, not just from clubs like Real Madrid." 

Garnacho has been strongly associated with a departure since Amorim came to the club, as he has been one of the players finding it hardest to adapt to his new role in the team, with the new coach requesting him to operate as an inverted forward. 

Amorim acknowledges that "something is lacking" in the Argentinian’s performance currently, stating he and his fellow forwards "are not executing actions with the quality they ought to." 

"I believe they should invest more time in that role since we haven't had many matches similar to Nottingham, focused just on attacking." “We need to allocate more time there,” Amorim stated. 


“At that moment, if you observe Rasmus (Hojlund), Josh (Zirkzee), and Garna (Alejandro Garnacho), they desire this and attempt to score – particularly Garna.” 

"They desire it strongly, yet we aren't executing the tasks with the quality they require." At times, it’s challenging to clarify because we have scenarios where everyone understands Garna's intended target for the ball, yet something feels off, possibly just the timing of the players. 

Amorim has indeed been struck by the influence of Ayden Heaven, who transferred to the club from Arsenal for £1.5m in January. 

"We should acknowledge Jason [Wilcox – Man Utd technical director]." Jason performed exceptionally well. "He's noticing those specifics," Amorim mentioned. 

"Ayden is a child who comes here, performs exceptionally well, and despite some injuries, he had a chance and demonstrated many qualities." Thus, that can also alter your recruitment. 

"If we were considering that 'Licha [Lisandro Martinez] is injured, we need a left-footed center-back', but now we have this young player, allowing us to save money for something else." That is truly significant, and opportunities are available for young children. 


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