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 not achieve it. And Real Madrid won't be able to mess this one up.
8. Lautaro Martínez [Inter]
Could he be the first Serie A champion since Kaka in 2007? It would be difficult to dispute a Champions League and league double.
7. Declan Rice [Arsenal]
Player of the match in both legs of the iconic semi-final victory against Real Madrid; now he simply needs to replicate that performance in Paris after Arsenal was defeated in the first leg of their semi-final.
6. Pedri [FC Barcelona]
“Pedri deserves the Ballon D’Or more than anyone, as everyone recognizes his talent,” Gavi states. Certainly, if Barcelona secures every title, the award will undoubtedly be given to one of the three outstanding attacking players…
5. Robert Lewandowski [Barcelona]
He earned it following his theft in 2020.
Lewandowski has been in sensational form this season and is experiencing one of the most fruitful seasons of his career at the impressive age of 36.
4. Mohamed Salah [Liverpool]
There was much absurd chatter regarding Salah securing the Ballon, but clinching the Premier League was always improbable to suffice. Not scoring in both matches against PSG essentially diminished his opportunities.
It’s reasonable to assert that obtaining the PFA award will be simpler…
3. Ousmane Dembélé [PSG]
We anticipated the bookmakers to realize that Dembele has netted more goals than anyone in 2025 and might achieve what Neymar, Lionel Messi, and Kylian Mbappe were unable to accomplish: Winning the Champions League with PSG. A goal in the semi-final against Arsenal will be beneficial.
2. Lamine Yamal [FC Barcelona]
Rodri predicts a Ballon d'Or victory in the future for the 17-year-old Barcelona talent. Seventeen, just so you know. The winner of the Kopa Trophy is already at a world-class level.
He shone brightly against Inter in the Champions League semi-final; is this his moment now?
1. Raphinha [FC Barcelona]
Enjoying an outstanding season with a Barcelona team that may secure the Champions League and La Liga, in addition to the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup already captured under Hansi Flick.
The ex-Leeds United player's numbers this season are remarkable, especially in Europe’s top tournament. He boasts an incredible 21 goal contributions (12 goals, nine assists) in 13 games and has netted a remarkable 15 goals in 31 La Liga encounters. He is unstoppable.
It’s valuable just to witness him crawling around the auditorium on his knees at the end of the day.
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