Kylian Mbappe, Lamine Yamal, Ousmane Dembele

Ballon d’Or 2025: Ranking the Top 16 Players in World Football – Complete List

September 26, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

The Ballon d’Or 2025 delivered one of the most exciting rankings in recent memory. A mix of established legends, rising stars, and breakthrough talents shaped the final list, highlighting the incredible depth of quality in world football today. From teenage prodigies to seasoned icons, the top 16 showcase the future and the present of the game. Let’s count down the elite, starting with No. 16 and finishing with the new Ballon d’Or winner.

16. Vinícius Jr.

At 25, Vinícius Jr. continues to prove why he is one of the most feared wingers in the world. His blistering pace, dribbling, and ability to deliver in decisive moments keep him among the very best. A market value of €170M underlines his elite status in football today.

15. Viktor Gyökeres

The Swedish striker has developed into one of Europe’s most reliable goal scorers. At 27, his physical presence and finishing ability make him a nightmare for defenders. His performances have earned him a deserved spot in the Ballon d’Or top 20.

14. Désiré Doué

Desire Doue — Victor Velter / Shutterstock.com

At only 20 years old, Désiré Doué is already being recognized as one of the brightest young stars in world football. With flair, composure, and versatility in midfield, he is seen as a future leader. His rise has been nothing short of spectacular.

13. Harry Kane

At 32, Kane is still among the most consistent strikers of his generation. His intelligence, finishing, and leadership qualities have kept him relevant at the very top. Kane’s longevity speaks volumes about his professionalism and talent.

12. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia

The Georgian winger has become a global star thanks to his creativity and explosiveness. At 24, “Kvaradona” continues to shine as one of the most dangerous attackers in Europe. His flair and vision have made him indispensable for club and country.

11. Pedri

At just 22, Pedri has already established himself as one of the best midfielders in the world. Known for his vision, passing, and intelligence, he dictates games with maturity beyond his years. His €140M market value reflects his exceptional talent.

10. Nuno Mendes

At 23, Mendes is one of the top left-backs in football today. His mix of defensive solidity and attacking support has been vital for both club and national team. A modern full-back, he is already among the best in his position.

9. Gianluigi Donnarumma

The Italian goalkeeper continues to cement his reputation as one of the best shot-stoppers in the game. At 26, he has combined experience with consistency at the highest level. His leadership from the back makes him a cornerstone for both club and country.

8. Cole Palmer

At 23, Palmer’s breakthrough into the elite has been one of the stories of the season. With creativity, composure, and an eye for goal, he has become a difference-maker. His rise reflects his hard work and incredible potential.

7. Kylian Mbappé

Still only 26, Mbappé remains one of the most lethal forwards in football. His speed, finishing, and big-game performances have kept him at the very top. Already a World Cup winner, he continues to chase every major honor.

6. Achraf Hakimi

The Moroccan right-back is regarded as one of the best in his position worldwide. At 26, Hakimi combines blistering pace with technical quality and defensive awareness. His influence stretches across both ends of the pitch.

5. Raphinha

The Brazilian winger has established himself as one of the most impactful wide players. At 28, his creativity, energy, and ability to score crucial goals have lifted his reputation. Raphinha’s consistency has finally earned him recognition among the elite.

4. Mohamed Salah

At 33, Salah is still performing at the very highest level. The Egyptian forward remains a symbol of consistency, delivering goals and assists year after year. His longevity and professionalism keep him among the game’s greatest.

3. Vitinha

The Portuguese midfielder has taken a huge step forward at 25, showing his class and maturity. Known for his vision, control, and intelligence, he has become the heartbeat of his team. Vitinha’s rise marks him as one of Europe’s finest playmakers.

2. Lamine Yamal

At just 18, Yamal is rewriting history as one of the youngest ever to reach this level. His dribbling, flair, and confidence make him a unique talent who plays without fear. The future looks incredibly bright for the Spanish wonderkid.

1. Ousmane Dembélé

At 28, Ousmane Dembélé finally claims the Ballon d’Or after years of talent, hard work, and resilience. His explosive speed, dribbling, and decisive contributions have been unmatched this season. A long-awaited reward, cementing him among football’s greatest names.