Ballon d’Or 2025 Power Rankings: The 25 Biggest Contenders This Season
As the football world looks ahead to the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony, the competition has never been more open—or more exciting. With Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo no longer dominating the European scene, a new generation of superstars is stepping into the spotlight.
The 2024/25 season has delivered unforgettable performances, breakout campaigns, and major title triumphs. From rising teenage sensations to experienced veterans still at the top of their game, this year’s power rankings reflect the evolving landscape of world football. Based on trophies won, individual brilliance, and season-defining moments, here are the top 25 contenders for the most prestigious individual honor in the sport.
25. Kevin De Bruyne – Manchester City
Despite missing stretches due to injury, De Bruyne's vision and passing still made him a critical cog in City's midfield when fit. His leadership and ability to control big games keep him among the elite.
24. Jamal Musiala – Bayern Munich
The German wonderkid had flashes of brilliance this season and showed why he remains one of the most exciting young midfielders in Europe. Musiala’s technical skill and creativity kept Bayern in title contention.
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23. Bernardo Silva – Manchester City
Bernardo Silva remains one of Guardiola’s most reliable players, contributing with tireless pressing and intelligent movement. His versatility and key performances in important games earn him a spot.
22. Jude Bellingham – Real Madrid
Bellingham started the season strong but saw his influence fade slightly toward the end. Nevertheless, his box-to-box dominance and goals from midfield made him a standout for Madrid in La Liga.
21. Rodri – Manchester City
Last year’s Ballon d’Or winner saw his momentum cut short by injury. But before that, Rodri’s composure, ball retention, and tactical intelligence were once again central to City’s success.
20. Scott McTominay – Napoli
The Scotsman surprised everyone with his transformation in Italy. A dominant presence in midfield, McTominay played a key role in Napoli’s resurgence, scoring clutch goals throughout the campaign.
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19. Virgil van Dijk – Liverpool
A rock in Liverpool’s title-winning defense, Van Dijk returned to his best under Arne Slot. His experience and aerial dominance helped the Reds reclaim the Premier League crown.
18. Cristiano Ronaldo – Al-Nassr
At 40, Ronaldo remains a goalscoring machine in Saudi Arabia. While he's no longer in Europe’s top leagues, his numbers and influence keep him in the broader conversation.
17. Vinicius Jr – Real Madrid
Vini Jr. had moments of magic throughout the season, including standout Clasico performances. Although Madrid fell short in Europe, his flair and explosiveness continue to make him a threat.
16. Robert Lewandowski – Barcelona
Though not quite at his Bayern peak, Lewandowski contributed consistently to Barcelona’s league triumph. His experience and goalscoring instincts remain valuable assets.
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15. Harry Kane – Bayern Munich
Kane delivered another impressive goal tally in his debut Bundesliga season. Even without silverware, his consistency in front of goal makes him one of the game’s top strikers.
14. Cole Palmer – Chelsea
In a breakout season, Palmer led a youthful Chelsea side with both goals and assists. His composure under pressure and game-changing ability mark him as England’s brightest hope.
13. Gianluigi Donnarumma – Paris Saint-Germain
Donnarumma’s reflexes and command of his box were crucial in PSG’s Champions League run. The Italian keeper was a consistent wall behind an attacking juggernaut.
12. Lautaro Martínez – Inter Milan
Inter's talisman led the Serie A scoring charts and captained the team to another domestic title. Lautaro’s pressing and finishing make him one of Europe's most complete forwards.
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11. Pedri – Barcelona
A midfield maestro, Pedri’s intelligence and quick feet kept Barcelona ticking in tough games. His playmaking and control of tempo were essential during the club’s La Liga campaign.
10. Achraf Hakimi – Paris Saint-Germain
Hakimi was unstoppable down the right flank, contributing goals and assists while maintaining defensive solidity. His all-action style helped PSG dominate Europe.
9. Nuno Mendes – Paris Saint-Germain
Mendes shined in both the Champions League and Nations League, silencing top attackers. The Portuguese left-back had one of the best defensive seasons in recent memory.
8. Kylian Mbappé – Real Madrid
Mbappé added another Golden Boot to his collection but missed out on major team trophies. His individual brilliance, however, keeps him firmly in Ballon d’Or contention.
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7. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia – Paris Saint-Germain
After joining PSG mid-season, the Georgian winger dazzled with his pace and flair. His ability to beat defenders and open up games gave PSG a new attacking dimension.
6. Désiré Doué – Paris Saint-Germain
The 19-year-old sensation delivered in the biggest moments, including a Champions League final masterclass. Doué’s maturity, end product, and energy make him one of the stories of the season.
5. Mohamed Salah – Liverpool
Salah was electric under new manager Arne Slot, driving Liverpool to the Premier League title. With over 50 goal contributions, he remains one of the most dangerous forwards in the world.
4. Raphinha – Barcelona
The Brazilian winger exploded in 2024/25, racking up 59 goal contributions. His goals in crucial league games, especially against Madrid, were key to Barcelona’s domestic success.
3. Vitinha – Paris Saint-Germain
A silent architect behind PSG’s dominance, Vitinha pulled the strings in midfield all season. His combination of calmness, vision, and work ethic elevated those around him.
2. Lamine Yamal – Barcelona
At just 17, Yamal has become Barcelona’s talisman and a European champion with Spain. His creativity, vision, and fearlessness have the football world wondering: is this the next global icon?
1. Ousmane Dembélé – Paris Saint-Germain
The standout performer of the season, Dembélé was PSG’s difference-maker in attack. With 35 goals and 16 assists, he led from the front and delivered in every major competition—firmly placing him atop the Ballon d’Or 2025 rankings.
