The 2025 Ballon d’Or race is heating up, and with the Lionel Messi-Cristiano Ronaldo era officially behind us, a new generation is stepping forward. Based on seasonal achievements, individual brilliance, and trophy hauls, here are the top 20 contenders ranked from 20 to 1.
20 – Alessandro Bastoni (Inter Milan & Italy)
The composed Italian defender was a consistent figure in Inter Milan’s solid backline. His leadership and ability to play out from the back kept him in contention among the world’s best defenders.
19 – Scott McTominay (Napoli & Scotland)
McTominay’s move to Napoli sparked the best form of his career. His physicality and knack for scoring important goals earned him recognition across Europe.
18 – Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool & Netherlands)
A rock at the heart of Liverpool’s defence, Van Dijk remains a commanding presence. Despite advancing age, he played a key role in their Premier League title-winning campaign.
17 – Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr & Portugal)
Even outside Europe, Ronaldo continued to make headlines with goal-scoring exploits in Saudi Arabia. His legacy and output keep him in the Ballon d’Or conversation.
16 – Vinicius Jr (Real Madrid & Brazil)
Last year’s runner-up fell in the rankings due to Real Madrid’s underwhelming season. Vinicius still dazzled with flashes of brilliance but lacked the silverware to back it up.
15 – Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona & Poland)
The veteran striker delivered another double-digit goal season for Barcelona. While his prime may be behind him, his experience and finishing remain valuable.
14 – Harry Kane (Bayern Munich & England)
Kane adapted quickly to German football, delivering goals aplenty for Bayern. His consistent performances helped the team stay in domestic contention.
13 – Gianluigi Donnarumma (PSG & Italy)
Donnarumma was crucial in PSG’s Champions League-winning run, pulling off key saves in tight matches. His shot-stopping ability made him the standout goalkeeper of the season.
12 – Lautaro Martinez (Inter Milan & Argentina)
Martinez had a prolific season in Serie A and was Inter’s top scorer. His movement and finishing made him one of the most reliable strikers in Europe.
11 – Pedri (Barcelona & Spain)
Barcelona’s midfield maestro showcased maturity beyond his years. His vision and control were key to the team’s domestic success.
10 – Achraf Hakimi (PSG & Morocco)
Hakimi was electric on the right flank, combining tireless energy with attacking threat. With 27 goal contributions and over 50 games played, he was essential to PSG’s treble challenge.
9 – Nuno Mendes (PSG & Portugal)
The Portuguese full-back was exceptional both defensively and going forward. His display against Lamine Yamal in the Nations League final was a defensive masterclass.
8 – Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid & France)
Mbappe scored 43 goals and won the European Golden Shoe. However, Real Madrid’s failure to win major trophies hampered his Ballon d’Or chances this season.
7 – Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (PSG & Georgia)
After a mid-season switch from Napoli, Kvaratskhelia added pace and unpredictability to PSG’s attack. His flair and two-footed dribbling made him a nightmare for defenders.
6 – Desire Doue (PSG & France)
The breakout star of the Champions League final, Doue scored twice and assisted once on the biggest stage. His overall haul of 32 goal contributions reflects a remarkable season.
5 – Mohamed Salah (Liverpool & Egypt)
With 34 goals and 23 assists, Salah remained Liverpool’s talisman. His performances were pivotal in helping the club lift the Premier League under Arne Slot.
4 – Raphinha (Barcelona & Brazil)
The Brazilian winger produced 59 goal contributions across the season. He played a major role in Barcelona winning La Liga and was a menace in El Clasico.
3 – Vitinha (PSG & Portugal)
The engine of PSG’s midfield, Vitinha combined calmness in possession with key contributions in big games. He also added a Nations League medal to his resume.
2 – Lamine Yamal (Barcelona & Spain)
At just 17, Yamal stunned the football world with 18 goals and 25 assists. He helped Barcelona secure another La Liga title and carried Spain to a European final.
1 – Ousmane Dembele (PSG & France)
Dembele leads the Ballon d’Or race with 35 goals and 16 assists in 52 games. His explosive performances, title-winning form and Champions League heroics make him the frontrunner for 2025.
