Top 5 Ballon d'Or Rankings - 2025
The race for football's most prestigious individual prize
1. Ousmane Dembélé (PSG)
Leading the 2025 Ballon d’Or race is Ousmane Dembélé, who had a phenomenal season with Paris Saint-Germain. He was the heart of PSG’s historic treble (Ligue 1, Coupe de France, Champions League, and Trophée des Champions), recording 35 goals and 15 assists. He was man of the match in the Champions League final, where PSG destroyed Inter 5-0, with Dembélé providing two assists.
2. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
At just 17 years old, Lamine Yamal is making history. He helped Barcelona secure a domestic treble (La Liga, Copa del Rey, Supercopa de España) and led La Liga in assists. With 21 assists and 18+ goals, he has shown elite vision, decision-making, and playmaking. His average match rating across the season was 7.91.
3. Raphinha (Barcelona)
Another key figure in Barcelona's treble-winning campaign, Raphinha contributed an astonishing 39 goals and 25 assists. His consistency in the final third and ability to show up in big matches make him a serious contender for the Ballon d'Or.
4. Vitinha (PSG)
Often under the radar, Vitinha played a pivotal role in PSG’s treble-winning side. As the midfield anchor, he controlled games and contributed with crucial goals and assists. His performance in the UEFA Nations League, which Portugal won, adds to his impressive year.
5. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
Mohamed Salah had yet another explosive season, leading Liverpool to the Premier League title with over 50 goal contributions (34 goals and 22 assists). Despite Liverpool not going far in Europe, Salah’s consistency and leadership kept him in the top 5.
Summary Table
| Rank | Player | Club | Why They Stand Out |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ousmane Dembélé | PSG | Champions League winner, domestic treble, 35 goals & 15 assists |
| 2 | Lamine Yamal | Barcelona | Domestic treble, La Liga assist leader, 17 years old, elite match rating |
| 3 | Raphinha | Barcelona | 39 goals, 25 assists, consistent key player in big matches |
| 4 | Vitinha | PSG | Engine of midfield, UEFA Nations League winner, vital for PSG’s treble |
| 5 | Mohamed Salah | Liverpool | Premier League champion, 50+ goal involvements, incredible consistency |
What Could Tip the Scales?
Trophies often play a crucial role in the Ballon d'Or decision. Dembélé’s Champions League success puts him at an advantage, but Yamal’s youth and narrative as the next global superstar could sway voters. Salah's case is strong individually, but European success might be the missing link. Vitinha and Raphinha are dark horses who could surprise everyone.
Fan Opinions
“How is Salah still on this list? Dembélé is averaging 1.59 G+A p90 — better than Salah — this just shows how much PR Barcelona has.” – Reddit User
“Yamal at 17 is already elite. If he wins another major title, it’s hard to ignore him.” – Football Forum Fan
The 2025 Ballon d'Or will be decided not just by numbers, but also by the story, the influence, and the memories these players leave behind this season.
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