As the 2025 Ballon d’Or race heats up, the latest odds highlight a fiercely competitive field, with standout performances driving the conversation. Here’s a look at the top contenders, their achievements, and why they’re in the running for football’s most prestigious individual award.
Ousmane Dembélé (PSG, 2.75) leads the pack, transformed into a goal-scoring machine under Luis Enrique. With 33 goals and 13 assists across all competitions, including a staggering 25 goals in 2025 alone, Dembélé has been PSG’s talisman. His pivotal role in securing Ligue 1, the French Super Cup, and a Champions League final berth makes him a strong favorite. A standout performance against Inter in the final could seal it.
Lamine Yamal (Barcelona, 4), at just 17, is a phenomenon. With 16 goals and 24 assists, his dribbling and chance creation have dazzled in La Liga, where Barcelona won the title. His assist in the Copa del Rey final, a 3-2 extra-time victory over Real Madrid, helped secure Barcelona’s 32nd title. Despite their Champions League exit, Yamal’s consistency and trophy haul make him a serious contender for Ballon d’Or 2025.
Raphinha (Barcelona, 6) has been a revelation, amassing 34 goals and 25 assists. Joint-top scorer in the Champions League with 13 goals, his performances in La Liga and the Copa del Rey have been electric. Barcelona’s domestic dominance bolsters his case, though their European elimination may hurt his chances.
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Lautaro Martínez (Inter, 8) is a dark horse. Scoring in the Champions League semi-final and winning a penalty, he’s been instrumental in Inter’s run to the final and their Serie A title chase. With over 20 goals, a Champions League/league double could make him the first Serie A winner since 2007.
Gianluigi Donnarumma (PSG, 10) is a wildcard as a goalkeeper. His 11 clean sheets, including a stellar semi-final against Arsenal, have been crucial for PSG’s Champions League campaign. A heroic final could see him become the first keeper since Lev Yashin to win.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (PSG, 11) and Mohamed Salah (Liverpool, 11) are tied. Kvaratskhelia’s flair since joining PSG has yielded a league title, while Salah’s 28 goals and 18 assists powered Liverpool’s Premier League triumph. Both lack Champions League success, which may hinder them.
Achraf Hakimi (PSG, 26) and Pedri (Barcelona, 26) are long shots. Hakimi’s 7 goals and 11 assists, plus his semi-final heroics, showcase his versatility, but fullbacks rarely win. Pedri’s midfield mastery and goal in the Copa del Rey final are notable, yet Barcelona’s European exit dims his prospects.
Désiré Doué (PSG, 41) and Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid, 41) are outsiders. Doué’s breakout Champions League campaign is promising, but he’s too young to dominate. Mbappé’s 35 goals are impressive, but Real Madrid’s Champions League and Copa del Rey final losses weaken his case to win the Ballon d’Or 2025.
Prediction: Dembélé’s goal-scoring prowess and PSG’s potential Champions League glory give him the edge, but Yamal’s youth, flair, and Copa del Rey contribution could steal the show if Barcelona’s domestic sweep sways voters. Who do you think will win? 😏