As we approach the final stretch of the football season, the race for the 2025 Ballon d’Or is wide open. With the Club World Cup final now behind us — and Ousmane Dembélé’s PSG falling short — the rankings have shifted. Let’s take a look at how the top contenders stack up now, with surprise names like Vitinha, Lamine Yamal, and Cole Palmer entering the conversation.
📉 Ousmane Dembélé – Title Slip Hurts His Case
Dembélé had been among the frontrunners this year after an incredible domestic and Champions League campaign with Paris Saint-Germain. However, PSG’s loss to Manchester City in the Club World Cup final may have damaged his Ballon d’Or hopes.
While his flair, creativity, and stats remain impressive, football’s top award often hinges on silverware and missing out on the biggest club trophy of the year could be costly.
Current Ballon d'Or Position: 3rd
Key Stats: 20 goals, 14 assists (all comps)
🔥 Vitinha – The Engine Behind PSG
Often underrated, Vitinha has quietly become one of the most influential midfielders in Europe. His role in PSG’s midfield trio this season has been vital to their success in Ligue 1 and Europe.
His technical ability, press resistance, and passing vision have turned heads. And while midfielders are rarely the flashy picks for Ballon d’Or, Vitinha is slowly forcing his name into the conversation.
Current Ballon d'Or Position: 6th
Key Stats: 7 goals, 9 assists, 93% pass accuracy
🌟 Lamine Yamal – The Wonderkid Making History
At just 17 years old, Lamine Yamal is doing things most veterans dream of. With standout performances for Barcelona and the Spanish national team, he’s not only contributing — he’s dominating.
His explosive dribbling, intelligence, and end product make him one of the most exciting young players on the planet. If Barcelona wins a major trophy or Spain goes deep in the Nations League, Yamal could break into the top 5.
Current Ballon d'Or Position: 8th
Key Stats: 14 goals, 10 assists (age 17!)
⚡ Cole Palmer – Chelsea’s Starboy
From fringe player at Man City to breakout star at Chelsea, Cole Palmer has transformed into one of England’s most dangerous attackers. With Chelsea climbing the table and Palmer putting up elite numbers, his case is growing stronger by the week.
His ability to show up in big games and take responsibility as a young leader stands out. If Chelsea secure silverware, Palmer could finish in the top 7.
Current Ballon d'Or Position: 7th
Key Stats: 21 goals, 11 assists (all comps)
💬 Final Thoughts
The 2025 Ballon d’Or race remains thrilling — and unpredictable. While names like Bellingham and Vinícius Jr lead the pack, the rise of new stars like Yamal, Palmer, and Vitinha is reshaping the conversation.
🏆 Who’s your pick for the Ballon d'Or? Should Dembélé still be in the top 3? Drop your thoughts in the comments or share your rankings on social media!